Ray “Butch” Wilkins reckons David Beckham's big-game temperament could rescue his country´s fading Euro 2008 hopes.
The former England player, who played for Chelsea, Man United and AC Milan, says Beckham must be picked for next week´s match with Croatia if England are to have a chance of qualifying for Austria and Switzerland 2008.
Croatia are 20/1 to win Euro 2008 with Sportsbook.com.
"If he's fit I'd play David because he gives us outstanding quality," said Wilkins. "Young players have plenty to offer but when it comes to the nitty-gritty games like the Croatia match – and please God I hope we're still in it – then you need some know-how."
Steve McClaren's side need lady luck on their side if they are to qualify. They need Russia to fail to beat Israel on Saturday and then see of Croatia at Wembley.
In 2001 Beckham struck a last-gasp free-kick to secure a 2-2 draw with Greece at Old Trafford that booked England's World Cup place. Wilkins believes his experience could prove decisive once again.
"Trust me, when we play the Croats we are going to need a bit of know-how. He's as important to England as Steven Gerrard or Michael Owen.
"We need to have him around. He can make sure the ball is put exactly where it needs to be.
"It's been forgotten what he did against Greece – it was forgotten too quickly.
"Before the free-kick that won the game, he took eight others and I don't think he hit the target. But he had the bottle to stand up and take the last one, which flew into the net.
"That match showed he's a man who will rise to the occasion and, absolutely, he could do that against Croatia," said Wilkins.
