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.
It would seem pointless for Capello 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.
Capello said: "I always said that when David Beckham was fit he could be in the squad.
"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."
Capello also made special mention of Michael Owen and Joe Cole in matches he was watched this week.
"I saw Michael Owen play for Newcastle on Monday at Birmingham," said the Italian. "I felt he looked sharp, very alive and it was good to see him scoring.
"I should also mention Joe Cole who I thought was excellent last night for Chelsea in a very exciting game. He had a massive impact."
Chelsea pair John Terry and Frank Lampard, who missed Capello's first game in charge due to injury, are also included.
Those named in Capello's first 30-man squad in January who miss out this time are Manchester City's Micah Richards and Aston Villa's Curtis Davies, both injured, as well as Tottenham's Ledley King, Reading's Nicky Shorey, Manchester United's Michael Carrick and Wigan's Emile Heskey.
Capello has not named his captain against France - he has said he wants to try different players before deciding on a permanent choice.
Steven Gerrard had the armband against Switzerland last month and Terry or Rio Ferdinand are the favourites for this game.
Most of the focus will be on Beckham though and it seems very unlikely Capello will not keep him in his thinned-down 23-man squad that will be confirmed on Saturday evening.
Walcott's inclusion was also anticipated as the 19-year-old's recent performances for Arsenal - including a notable cameo against AC Milan - were known to have caught Capello's eye.
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