MADRID Real Madrid midfielder Steve McManaman hopes his recent performances for the European champions can secure his return to the England side for February's friendly international against Spain.

"I haven't spoken with the new Manager Sven Goran Eriksson but I would love to play against Spain and face up to my teammates Raul, Hierro and Helguera," McManaman told reporters on Tuesday.

"I did not play in the last match against Italy but I hope I can now return to the side."

The former Liverpool player came off the bench during Sunday's match against Oviedo to score with a spectacular volley that completed a comfortable 4-0 win for Real, taking them three points clear at the top of the Spanish first division.

His 88th-minute goal earned him a standing ovation from the 75,000 crowd at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"It was the first time I have witnessed a reception like that, with the whole crowd waving white handkerchiefs. It was really fantastic."

"I am feeling in good form at the moment and am playing games," added the player. "But the most important thing at the moment is the team. At home we are very strong and against Oviedo we played half an hour of fantastic football."

(Reuter)