Henry backs Beckham for recall

Arsenal captain Thierry Henry insists David Beckham still has "so much" to offer as an England international.

Henry argues that Beckham, 31, remains capable of playing for his country, even if new head coach Steve McClaren has yet to select him for any of his squads.

The Frenchman told The Sun: "Steve McClaren has a very difficult job. One of the most difficult jobs in the world but David is a great player and a great guy. I believe he still has so much to give England and it would be a shame if he does not get another chance."

Beckham is currently not guaranteed a place in the Real Madrid team, however he has expressed a strong desire to win regular selection for club and country, which until this season had on both counts been considered a given.

Henry, 29, dismissed suggestions that the former England captain's focus has drifted away from football and towards off-the-field interests.

"People get him wrong as he is not showbiz," Henry added. "In fact he reminds me of (Zinedine) Zidane. You tell ZZ he is good and he looks away and says 'Okay, yeah, yeah'. He is embarrassed and David is like that."

Henry also gave a warm welcome to news of Cesc Fabregas signing a new eight-year contract.

The 19-year-old Spanish midfielder was a big influence as Arsenal reached last season's Champions League final, and Henry stated: "Cesc deciding to stay here is as important as me staying. I don't think I will be here when he is 29. But he is the future of the club so you have to keep him."