The Return of Brave, Brave Sir David

Two matches, two good performances for England. The first, a showpiece friendly at the new Wembley stadium against Brazil. The second, a must win Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia. The performances in both games restoring confidence in the current England set-up. But is it really any wonder? When it coincides with the recall of a player who can inspire the rest of the team, an old England hero, David Beckham.

Since Beckham’s announcement at last summer’s world cup that he was to step down as England captain, and him subsequently being dropped from the team, England have struggled to even attempt to fill the gap that he has left. I’m not just talking about his ability, although against Estonia on Wednesday 6th June at times he gave a masterclass in passing and crossing the ball, it's what he also brings to the team, confidence and the will to win.

He must now at least, stand amongst some of the greats of English international football past and present, in his proudness to wear the England shirt. Beckham is without doubt clearly honoured to represent his country and gives his all for the cause.

He has, let’s be honest here, pulled England out of the fire on a few occasions. There’s obviously the free kick against Greece which everyone remembers, but somewhat more recently the two free kicks against Paraguay and Ecuador both salvaged a win in games where England had failed to put in a convincing performance. Beckham has almost grown up in the public eye with England, from France 1998 when he was sent off, to the way he dealt with that and became a better player, returning to almost get his own back with his penalty against Argentina in Japan 2002.

Still though, Beckham has his detractors, listening to radio five live’s 6-0-6 phone in programme after the game against Estonia there was almost an even split between those who felt Beckham’s return to international duty was a welcome thing, and those who didn't.
In my opinion Steve McClaren never should have dropped him in the first place. I can see all the arguments for building a new younger England team but when as with the case of Beckham there is no evident replacement for what he can bring to the team, then dropping him just left an enormous gap which subsequent performances clearly showed.

It is often said that a good player plays well but a great player inspires other players to play well, so maybe it's not so much what Beckham does on the pitch that’s so important but what he can inspire others to do.

If his return results, in once again saving England’s qualifying chances, then maybe finally his contribution to the national team will be acknowledged to the full.