A number of former England managers have backed Fabio Capello's decision to recall David Beckham to the national team squad for the friendly against France next week.

Beckham's inclusion could give the former captain a chance to win his 100th cap after he was left out of Capello's first squad for February's friendly against Switzerland.

The 32-year-old's lack of match fitness meant he was not considered then, but he has subsequently been involved in pre-season action with Los Angeles Galaxy which has persuaded the Italian coach to name him in an initial 30-man party.

Sven-Goran Eriksson, who managed England from 2001 to 2006, was pleased that the midfielder who captained England throughout his reign was back in the squad.

"I am very happy for David, of course," Eriksson said.

"I think he deserves to have his 100th cap - but if he is going to start or come on, I have no idea."

Eriksson, now in charge of Manchester City, revealed he may look to bring in an experienced big-name player next season to help "fill the stadium" but laughed off any suggestions Beckham could move to Eastlands.

Eriksson added: "We haven't talked about that - but I think it would be very difficult to match his salary!"

Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan, who managed England from 1999 to 2000, believes Beckham was called up on merit and not sentiment and hopes he wins his 100th cap.

He said: "I think all the fans want it, I think all the players who know him would want it, and I think all the managers who have managed him want it.

"I think at the end of the day it's not nostalgic, if he wins one more cap to get a 100 it will be what he deserves."

Glenn Hoddle, who held the national team post from 1996 to 1999, felt Beckham's international career could yet continue beyond his 100th cap.

Hoddle, who was in charge when Beckham was sent off in a World Cup second-round match against Argentina for a kick on Diego Simeone, has suggested Beckham's range of passing and versatility would make him a useful asset to Capello.

"He certainly deserves it," Hoddle said.

"If I was England manager now I think there would be even more games for David Beckham.

"I can see him playing different roles - he can play a deeper role in midfield in international football.

"And even, if the current manager decided to play three at the back, he could step in and play in between the two centre-backs if he switched his mind to defensive mode.

"I certainly think he has got a few more caps up his sleeve. He can maybe go on and win a few more than the one or two caps people are talking about."

Steve McClaren, who Capello replaced after he was sacked in November following England's failure to qualify for Euro 2008, admitted Beckham's contribution to football means he is worthy of the milestone.

"He has deserved his 100th cap for what he has been through, the kind of person he is, and what he has given to football," McClaren said.

"David was out the scene then when I brought him back and he was so excited about returning. For what he has given he deserves to get that cap.

"If he is made captain for the game that would be a big bonus."

If he is not selected for the France clash in Paris on March 26 another opportunity could come on May 28 after the Football Association confirmed a friendly with the United States at Wembley.

And US winger Eddie Lewis admitted if that was the case it would be a fantastic occasion.

"Whatever happens, he is undoubtedly worthy of it," Lewis said.

"He has had an incredible career, and with some of the pressure involved in playing for England, it has not always been easy.

"But I feel he has been an incredible ambassador to football, and English football in particular. Of the few guys who have reached such a milestone, he is as worthy as anybody."

Former Scotland boss Alex McLeish, now in charge of Birmingham, said: "It will be a tremendous achievement if David Beckham gets his 100th cap.

"He has been a fantastic player over the years. It is well deserved and I just don't think it has been handed to him.

"Beckham is still playing to a level where he is capable of enhancing the English team.

"I am not saying the American level is brilliant but Beckham will be the best judge of that.

"If you think of the USA and their FIFA standings and what they've done in the World Cups, it is quite impressive."

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