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Beckham is called in to rescue Mac
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26 May 2007
The England head coach, who jettisoned the Real Madrid midfielder when he succeeded Sven Goran Eriksson last August, has given Beckham a dramatic reprieve ahead of a match that could determine his future.
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Beckham: Dramatic reprieve
McClaren faces the sack if England fail to beat Estonia in Tallinn a week on Wednesday, but he believes Beckham's experience can help him through the most turbulent period of his short reign.
Disgruntled England supporters chanted for the Real star's return in the 0-0 draw with Israel and the 3-0 win over Andorra in March.
Beckham, who stood down as skipper after the World Cup quarter-final defeat against Portugal, has yet to receive official confirmation but he is assured of a return.
McClaren had intended to name his squad after Friday night's England B clash with Albania but then delayed the announcement. He will confirm Beckham's recall at the Tall Trees Hotel in Yarm this morning.
McClaren has discussed Beckham's recall with his coaching staff and, although assistant Terry Venables voiced concerns, the England chief is determined to press on.
He has also canvassed senior players and they have given their blessing. Beckham, 32, was left out of McClaren's squad for his first game in charge, the 4-0 victory over Greece in August, but the former captain did not give up hope of adding to his 94 caps.
England have missed his creative edge and although Aaron Lennon and Steven Gerrard have played on the right, they have failed to fill the void. However, his return does create a selection dilemma in midfield ahead of the crucial Estonia clash.
Owen Hargreaves is making good progress after a knee injury and he will compete with Frank Lampard and Gerrard for a place in the centre.
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