Beckham set to train with Arsenal

David Beckham is set to train with Arsenal during the Los Angeles Galaxy's close season.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger revealed there is "a good chance" the former England captain will use the club's London Colney training ground to maintain his fitness.

"We will help him to get fit and prepare for the season," Wenger told BBC Radio Five Live. "There's a good chance that he will come in January, but it's not decided."

Beckham will need to prove his fitness if he is to be named in Fabio Capello's first England squad for the February 6th friendly against Switzerland at Wembley.

The 32-year-old's last game for the Galaxy was a friendly against the Wellington Hurricanes in New Zealand at the start of December.

The midfielder needs one more international appearance to reach a landmark 100 caps and London Colney is within an easy commute from Beckham's Hertfordshire home.

"He has 99 caps and I hope he will get 100, if not 100 then 120," said Wenger. "At his age, he needs to keep fit."

However, the Frenchman dismissed suggestions Beckham could feature for Arsenal in the new year.

"He comes (only) to keep fit and work hard," Wenger said.

© 2007 The Irish Times