Beckham recalled to England squad

LONDON (Reuters) - Former captain David Beckham was recalled to England's squad on Saturday for next week's friendly with Brazil and the Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia on June 6.

It is the first time the Real Madrid midfielder has been included in the squad since coach Steve McClaren took over from Sven Goran Eriksson after last year's World Cup.

"I feel that at the present moment to beat Estonia we need experience," McClaren told Sky Sports. "David certainly provides that and he's in very, very good form. I think he can help us win in Estonia and that's why I picked him."

"He was absolutely delighted as I knew he would be," added the England coach. "He has been a real professional throughout. He's coming into form and deserved to be in."

McClaren named a 26-man squad which also includes striker Michael Owen for the first time since he sustained a serious knee injury on England duty in the World Cup in Germany.

Blackburn Rovers wide midfielder David Bentley and Reading left back Nicky Shorey have also been named for the first time after impressive displays in Friday's 3-1 victory in a B international against Albania in which Owen also played.

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, who has only recently returned to action after an injury-hit season, rejoins the squad after a long period away from the international scene.

NEW SIGNINGS

"They feel like new signings -- David coming back in, Michael Owen, Alan Smith, Joe Cole -- and they will be a lift for everybody," said McClaren.