Shearer: No return for Beckham

Former England captain Alan Shearer has told David Beckham he should forget about changing Steve McClaren's mind and accept his international career is over.

McClaren has frequently said the door is not closed for the midfielder to make a return to the England fold, but Shearer - like Beckham a former captain of the national side - believes he will not add to his 94 caps.

He told The Sun: "I think Steve McClaren has made his decision and he will stick to it. I do not believe David Beckham will ever play for England again - that's it. Once he has made that decision I can't see him going back on it."

Shearer added: "Steve has decided he wants pace and power on the right side. That is why he has gone for Aaron Lennon or Steven Gerrard.

"That is his style and he is happy to have those players in that position rather than Beckham. As an individual, I'm sure he thinks he can still do a job. The problem is only one man's decision counts right now and Steve McClaren does not think Beckham will improve the England team."

Shearer was also dismissive of the former Manchester United midfielder's decision to move to Major League Soccer outfit Los Angeles Galaxy and believes it could prove costly in his bid to return to England colours.

He added: "He has hardly played any football [for Real] this season. Not only that but he is about to fly off to America to play in a league which is probably on a parallel with our second division, with respect.

"I don't know what his reasons are for going out there at his age. He still has some years left in him at a high level. I certainly believe he could do a job in the Premiership."