Century beckons for Beckham

Fabio Capello is expected to give David Beckham his 100th cap next week.

The 32-year-old midfielder has proved his fitness to the England manager and is certain to keep his place in the squad to face France in Paris next week.

Capello said: "I always said that when David Beckham was fit he could be in the squad."

It would seem pointless to pick Beckham for his 30-man provisional squad only to leave him out when he announces his final 23-man line-up on Saturday.

Furthermore, memories of last season when an inspired Beckham pushed Capello's Real Madrid to the league title remain strong with the Italian.

Capello also sent his number two Franco Baldini to the USA to watch Beckham in action in a pre-season friendly, and also spoke to his coach at Los Angeles Galaxy, Ruud Gullit.

He added: "I have had good reports on him from Franco Baldini, who watched him on Saturday night, and also from his club. I know a lot about David Beckham and what he can offer the team."

Capello said the fact the England Under-21s have a friendly rather than competitive game next week allowed him to pick Theo Walcott, 19, and David Wheater, 21.

He added: "Theo Walcott and David Wheater are two good young players who have done very well for the Under-21s this season and when I have seen them play for their clubs.

"Stuart Pearce has given me excellent recommendations on both players. Next week, Stuart has a friendly match so it is a good opportunity for us to consider some of the younger players for the senior squad."