Beckham will face Austria

David Beckham and Frank Lampard are set to return for England's match with Austria on Friday. Gareth Barry has been dropped after failing to put in a good performance in Russia.

Beckham, 32, is set to win his 98th cap in Vienna as Steve McClaren prepares to put him straight back in despite the former England captain's lack of match fitness.

Beckham, dogged by injury all season, has not played for England since the friendly defeat by Germany at Wembley in August. An ankle problem also curtailed the start to his career with LA Galaxy.

But under-fire McClaren, battling to save his job as England boss, believes Beckham's return will be a hugely popular choice among the fans as he prepares to name his team for Friday.