David Beckham might well wonder what it would take for him to receive an England recall. A new England manager might be his only hope.

The Real Madrid midfielder had a hand in all three goals on Tuesday as Real Madrid took a 3-2 lead over Bayern Munich in their Champions League first-leg tie. Aside from the goals, Beckham was dangerous throughout, putting Gonzalo Higuain in alone, and forcing a magnificent save from Oliver Kahn from a free kick.

In the three matches since Beckham's return to Fabio Capello's squad, the former England captain has scored, received a standing ovation from the notoriously difficult-to-please Bernabeu faithful, and put in a Man-of-the-Match performance in the Champions League.

But aside from a few compliments to Beckham's strong character, England manager Steve McClaren has stopped far short of saying a recall was imminent.

McClaren was quoted as saying, "It's four weeks before the squad will be announced, so we will see what happens within the four weeks."

England has been plagued with injuries and poor performances while attempting to qualify for Euro 2008, but McClaren has remained adamant in picking a squad that seems to have relatively little to do with on-pitch performances.

Shaun Wright-Phillips's selection being a perfect example of McClaren's unorthodox strategy. The Chelsea winger has received little playing time at Stamford Bridge, and has never lived-up to the promise of his performances at Manchester City.

McClaren continues to claim a "new direction" for England, but any reasonable football supporter would question a direction that doesn't begin with picking the best available players.

David Beckham will surely wonder the same.


More from other web sites (in a new window):
McClaren says Beckham's back in the mix - FoxSoccer.com AP
McClaren hints at Beckham recall - BBC

Related on Soccer Golazo:
English FA Quick to Dismiss Beckham Recall Rumours
David Beckham Receives Standing Ovation and Straight Red