Eriksson would like to play Beckham in the centre of England's midfield - but wants the player to learn the role for his club side.

And he is hoping that United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will grant him his wish.

"I think those people who say Beckham should play inside in midfield might be right," said Eriksson.

"But it's not up to me to test that, it's up to Alex Ferguson.

"My job is to select the right players and let them play at the positions they already play in at their clubs."

Beckham himself has previously expressed a desire to become more involved in games by playing in a central role.

Balancing act

And former England international Ray Wilkins has no doubt Beckham could benefit from a positional switch.

He said: "David's range of passing from the middle of the field means he would be very influential - he definitely has the ability to play in the centre.

But Wilkins believes England would find it hard to replace Beckham, whom he calls "the best crosser of a ball I have ever seen", on the right.

Ultimately, Wilkins feels it is about striking a balance in the team.

He said: "England have a lot of quality in the middle of the pitch with Gerrard, Butt, Scholes, and Dyer. It is about picking the right player for the right position."

Beckham, though, is likely to be concentrating only on reaching full fitness and form following his broken metatarsal bone last season.

But Eriksson is confident that his England captain has the dedication and determination to recapture his best form.

"David works extremely hard," said Beckham. "By just being himself he is a leader. In training he goes first all the time.

"There are never any discussions about whether it's raining, or if it's windy.

"He agrees the work should just be done, end of discussion."