Capello set to check on Beckham

(GETTY IMAGES)

England coach Fabio Capello has dropped his strongest hint yet that David Beckham will be included in the squad for next month's friendly against Spain.

Capello will watch the 33-year-old midfielder in action for AC Milan in tonight's Serie A clash with Genoa and is likely to give him his 108th England cap - equalling Bobby Moore's record number for an outfield player - on 11 February.

"I advised (AC Milan owner Silvio) Berlusconi to get him and I will see him play against Genoa," said Capello in an television interview with Italia 1.

"He (Beckham) will have to thank the Rossoneri if he gets a call-up to the national team because they are letting him play.

"Tactically he is very strong and he is a serious professional."

Beckham has made three appearances for Milan, scoring once, since his short-term move from LA Galaxy earlier this month.

Speculation has been rife that he will extend his stay beyond 9 March, when he is due to return to the USA for the new MLS season.