McClaren drops Becks hint

[Mighty T.A.L.]

England coach Steve McClaren has hinted David Beckham's international career could be over.

Beckham was surprisingly axed from McClaren's first squad and he failed to regain his place for The Three Lions' upcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers against Macedonia and Croatia.

With Tottenham's Aaron Lennon out injured some felt Beckham could be recalled, but now McClaren has hinted Liverpool's Jermaine Pennant is next in the pecking order.

"Aaron Lennon is out but I said when I named my first squad that I'm looking for the future," explained McClaren.

"Along with Lennon, we have Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jermaine Pennant is also knocking on the door very much at the moment.

"He may not be included in this squad but he is doing very well at Liverpool and he's not beyond my thoughts.

"In Lennon, Wright-Phillips and Pennant, I see three young players I want to keep involved and keep around the squad."

Wayne Rooney has often been one of England's greatest sources of inspirations in the last two years, but McClaren has conceded he has lost his form.

The Manchester United ace missed the start of the campaign after being sent off against Porto and has struggled to hit top form for The Red Devils since.

"His momentum has been lost because of disruptions," he added.

"He hasn't got into a rhythm because of injury and the bans he's received but he's a world-class player and he'll get that form back with games.

"He's always been one of the best players.

"He's always been a player the opponents have feared and tried to take care of. But Wayne Rooney, believe me, will be in my team as long as he's fit."

Meanwhile, McClaren has distanced himself from the comments made by his agent Colin Gordon about corruption in football.

'Bungs' in football have been high in the media of late following BBC's Panorama investigation into the transfer market.

"I would like to make it clear that the views expressed by Colin earlier this week were his own individual opinions," he continued.

"I was not aware of him making the comments until I read them in the newspaper and he did not discuss the matter with me in advance.

Source: http://home.skysports.com