David Beckham is targeting a September return to the international scene.
The LA Galaxy star was unavailable for the World Cup because of a serious Achilles injury sustained whilst on loan with AC Milan earlier this year but is keen to again don the England shirt when European qualifiers for the championships in 2012 kick off.
First up is a home match against Bulgaria on September 3 which Beckham, according to a source close to him, is keen on being fit for.
The source confirmed that Beckham still has a deep passion for the national team and wants to again represent his beloved England.
"David loves playing for England and is optimistic he'll be ready for the qualifiers in September," the source said.