Soccer: Beckham new England skipper

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has named David Beckham as captain for his first match in charge against Spain.

The Manchester United midfielder has been given the nod to continue the role he took for England's friendly defeat in Italy under Peter Taylor in November.

"It the same captain as it was for the game against Italy - David Beckham," said England's new coach.

"First of all it's a good idea. Secondly I don't see any point in making changes because he did very well against Italy.

"I always thought like that I wanted to see the players and see him before announcing that. I think that was fair.

"To be captain of the team - an extremely important team - is very important.

"He is a good player first of all. He can become a leader."