Beckham seeks role in centre for country

David Beckham wants the England coach, Sven Goran Eriksson, to consider using him in a central midfield role, rather than on the right wing.

The former Manchester United midfielder seems to have discovered what he regards as his rightful role at the heart of the Real Madrid midfield since his transfer in the summer and wants a chance to do the same for England.

"I definitely prefer this position in the centre of the midfield," he said. "I think it's obvious since I arrived in Madrid that this opportunity they've given me to prove my worth in this position has allowed me to play very well.

"Certainly I have a few exceptional players around me, but I must say that in general I prefer playing in the middle. I would love it if I could do the same for England, but that is a question for Mr Eriksson."

Beckham added that the move to Madrid has soured his relationship with his former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson.

"I have only spoken to him once," he said. "It was when we were at the funeral of a young player. All we said was 'hello' - nothing more."

Beckham's hopes of playing in Real Madrid's league match with Atletico Madrid were boosted when he was included in the squad for the game. He sprained his right ankle during the draw with Osasuna on Saturday but was picked together with his team-mates Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo and Roberto Carlos, who were all out at the weekend. All four are likely to start tonight.