BECKHAM TO BE ENGLAND'S CAPTAIN MARVEL

ENGLAND manager Peter Taylor has named Manchester United midfielder David Beckham as his captain for Wednesday's friendly with Italy in Turin. And as far as Opta are concerned, there could be no finer player to lead out the national team.

Since the start of the 2000-01 Premiership campaign, Beckham's performances have been dazzling. Indeed, many pundits have gone far as to claim that the player of the year award is already a foregone conclusion. And when one examines his contribution for United this term, it is easy to see why. Beckham has already equalled his goal-tally of last year, firing six Premiership goals - more than any other top-flight midfielder.

However, despite Beckham's incredible shooting ability - particularly from set-pieces - it has been the England international's creative contribution that has really caught the eye. So far this season, he has made more accurate passes in the opposition half (390) and more successful passes over 25 yards (181) than any other player in the Premiership.

It should come as no surprise to those who have studied the United star's career that the has whipped in more accurate crosses and corners (53) than any other Premiership player this season; Beckham clearly living up to his mantle of the 'best crosser in the World'.

In fact, Beckham's passing has been so good that he has produced 28 defence splitting passes - more than any other player in the division - and set up six goals, giving him the highest total of assists in the Premiership.

With such great service, it is no wonder that Alex Ferguson's team are the top scoring team in the division. Taylor, and England, can only hope that their captain can reproduce his form on the international stage on Wednesday night.