McClaren says Beckham recall is about passion not panic

By Clive Hetherington

MIDDLESBROUGH (Reuters) - David Beckham's recall to the England squad was about passion not panic, coach Steve McClaren said on Saturday.

Beckham, 32, is back in the squad for the first time since last year's World Cup quarter-final exit to Portugal.

McClaren has ended the Real Madrid star's nine-game exile in the belief that Beckham can inspire his side to victory in the Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia on June 6.

But McClaren dismissed suggestions he has turned to Beckham in a desperate move to save his own job and said he might have come back earlier but for injury.

"His form is good. I think he can help us win in Estonia and that's why I've picked him," said the coach.

"He has experience, everybody knows David Beckham's game with his passing and his crossing, and he's certainly demonstrated that since the new year.

"He's playing with great appetite and hunger and he looks very fit. He's performing well and I believe he will strengthen our team and help us win.

"Initially, we had Steven Gerrard on the right, but the way he has performed in the middle of the park, I see him being a focal figure there.