Steve McClaren reports David Beckham is as determined as ever to play for England.
Beckham has just returned to training with Los Angeles Galaxy after recovering from a long-standing ankle problem and then a brief visit back to the United Kingdom to be with his father Ted, who suffered a heart attack last week.
The 32-year-old, who won his 97th cap in the August friendly defeat to Germany after being handed a surprise recall by McClaren for the June encounters with Brazil and Estonia, has been overlooked for next weekend's Euro 2008 Wembley return with the Estonians - and the crucial trip to Russia four days later.
However, Beckham has told England coach McClaren he is determined to figure in the final group game with Croatia next month - which would take him to the brink of a century of international appearances if he also played in the preceding friendly against Austria.
"I have spoken with David, and he is working towards being fit for Croatia," said McClaren.
"He is in light training at the moment and hopes to be in contention for that squad.
"David's state of mind is the same as it always has been.
"He is a true patriot who loves playing for England. We saw that when he came back into the squad last summer, and it is still his motivation and mindset."
