The Beckham England debate: Five reasons FOR and AGAINST his return

This week former England captain David Beckham admitted he has not given up hope of playing for England again. The idea is not as unlikely as it seems.

The Beckham England debate : Five reasons FOR and AGAINST his return  - Beckham performed admirably for French Ligue 1 leaders Paris Saint-Germain against Barcelona in the Champions League in a 2-2 draw on Tuesday. At the age of 37 and with 115 caps behind him, his critics will argue that his time has come and gone.

Others see it differently suggesting that 'Goldenballs' still has the golden touch at the elite level especially with England lacking in true quality in their recent 1-1 draw with Montenegro in a World Cup qualifier. Resident Eurosport blogger Jim White yesterday opened up the debate about a possible place in Roy Hodgson's squad when he penned this piece heaping praise on the ageless Beckham's pristine condition.

Beckham is 10 caps short of the legendary goalkeeper Peter Shilton's all-time record of 125 appearances for England, but can the midfielder edge nearer that mark? Here we give five reasons FOR and AGAINST Becks earning a recall. What do you think? Is he good enough to return to the national set-up with the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil just around the corner? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below and you can also vote on the issue at the bottom of homepage and our football page.

FOR

1. He remains the best free-kick taker in world football. You don't need to have bags of pace to harpoon a net with the ball.

2. People flock to see him. There is little doubt Beckham puts bums on seat. He is a huge draw in football, probably the biggest name in the world game. Certainly as well known as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

3. Stanley Matthews. He turned out for England regular when he was well into his forties and even played when he was 50. Beckham is just a pup at the age of 37.

4. His experience is second to none. His presence in the England squad would sprinkle it with some much-needed gold dust and help the younger players. He would be like a player-coach. PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti trusted him enough to start him against Barca.

5. Fitness. His game was never built on pace. But he remains as fit as ever. He is also mobile, and would not let England down with a new one-year contract set to be signed at PSG, whose owners are delighted with him.

AGAINST

1. His age. Some will say he is too old for England at the age of 37 even if he looks as fresh-faced as ever.

2. Lack of competitive games. He has spent the best part of the past five years playing for Los Angeles in the USA. One swallow does not a summer make. He needs to do more than impress against Barca. 

3. The media circus. Beckham brings with him a celebrity that certainly did not sit well with previous England managers such as Steve McClaren. His presence may detract from the focus being on England. Some might say that is no bad thing.

4. Was he ever that good? Some argue that he was a mediocre player who has never been as good as he was hyped up to be. Did he ever lead England to glory at a major tournament. Why would he start now?

5. England are going out on penalties whether or not Becks is there. England seems to lose on penalties no matter who is in the squad. Or just lose. Would Beckham make such a difference?

Again, we want to hear YOUR VIEW - leave your comments below. ( The Rundown  )