What the experts think

"Lee Bowyer would be my realistic replacement in midfield for David Beckham but if he can't be selected for political reasons, then I would go for Kieron Dyer.

Beckham's injury is a great disappointment, both for Manchester United and England, but of course, it does provide opportunities for other players.

It's important to be positive, particularly from the players' viewpoint."

I'd also go with Lee - Alan Curbishley, Charlton manager

"When Lee Bowyer was at Charlton, before he moved to Leeds, we started with him in a wide right position but then switched him to central midfield.

Lee's a fine player anywhere across the line so he could be the answer but there are other candidates such as Newcastle's Kieron Dyer, Liverpool's Danny Murphy, or Steve McManaman at Real Madrid.

Gary Neville and David Seaman have the experience to be the captain."

Sinclair is man for me - Glenn Roeder, West Ham manager

"I would plump for my West Ham midfield player, Trevor Sinclair.

I'd like to think that Trevor would be in the 23 anyway but, if David was ruled out, he would do a good job out there.

My captain would be Gareth Southgate. As a player and a person, I believe he would blossom in that role if he was given the opportunity."