Robson backs ton-up Becks

Former England boss Sir Bobby Robson feels David Beckham would be "fully justified" in reaching the landmark of 100 international caps.

The Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder would become only the fifth player to chalk-up a century of appearances for England were he to feature in Wednesday night's friendly with France in Paris.

"I think it is fully justified and he deserves it. He has been a great player and still is," Robson told Sky Sports News. "David is a very respectful and popular boy, he was a good captain."

He added: "He has great free-kicks, and can put the ball on the spot in dangerous areas from his crosses.

"With Bobby Moore, Sir Bobby Charlton, Billy Wright and Peter Shilton, who got to a record - David Beckham deserves his 100 caps and I hope he gets it."

Shilton, who retired in 1997, holds the current record at 125 caps.

Veteran Portsmouth keeper David James has returned to the England side under Fabio Capello and Shilton believes the 37-year-old can go on to make the jersey his own.

"David James' club form has warranted him getting back in the squad," the former Nottingham Forest, Southampton and Derby stopper said.

"As a goalkeeper you should learn with your mistakes, get better as you get older and that is what David has done.

"There are always people going to be saying there is a big error coming, but as long it is one a season and not one every two or three games, then he could cement his position in the England goal."