LONDON (AFP) -- David Beckham has been recalled to England's squad for their forthcoming matches against Austria and Croatia.

Beckham had missed England's last four games with a knee injury but the LA Galaxy midfielder is back for next Friday's friendly in Austria and the final Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia at Wembley the following Wednesday.
England coach Steve McClaren flew to Los Angeles last weekend to assess Beckham's fitness and he left convinced the former Manchester United star is ready to handle two matches in six days, despite barely having played for his club in the last 10 weeks.
Beckham should win his 98th and 99th caps for his country in these two matches, but could be left stuck one short of a century if England fail to qualify for Euro 2008.
McClaren admitted he was keen to bring Beckham back into the fold because he wants to draw on as much experience as possible for the Croatia.
""He hasn't played games but is included because, with the likes of Rio Ferdinand and John Terry out, we are lacking experience,"" McClaren said. ""We need big game players and David Beckham is one of them.
""Believe me, this Croatia match will be a big game. I've always believed that. You need your experienced, big-time players in these matches.
""I needed to check on David's injury and I've done that. I've spoken to his medical and fitness people. The injury is fine and his fitness is fine.""
With speculation mounting that England's likely elimination from the race for Euro 2008 will see McClaren lose his job, the coach has named a 26-man squad for what could be his last two matches in charge.
England captain Terry is missing as he recovers from knee surgery, while Manchester United defender Ferdinand has been left out because he is suspended for the qualifier.
Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole returns after an ankle injury and Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves is also back from injury.