The Guardian says Capello has told his inner circle that he intends to leave the former Real Madrid midfielder out of his first squad to face Switzerland at Wembley on Wednesday week. Capello names his 22-man squad on Saturday and Beckham is not expected to be on the list.

The Italian will attempt to speak to Beckham this week before making a definitive decision but has privately argued that the 32-year-old cannot be fully match-fit, having not played a competitive game since late November.

It is the close season for Beckham's club side, Los Angeles Galaxy, and Capello has also expressed serious doubts about the standard of Major League Soccer but insists that he is not closing the door on the former England captain's international career. Indeed, he still sees Beckham playing a role in his attempt to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.

Beckham is training with Arsenal to stay in shape and Capello has been impressed by his efforts to maintain fitness. But, according to sources close to the new England manager, Capello still does not think that Beckham has been able to demonstrate that he is ready for international football - even if next week's match is only a friendly.