But, thanks to England’s stuttering performances in their Euro 2008 qualification games and the consistently high standards of his performances for Real Madrid, Goldenballs is back in the fold. And, judging by the way your searches have soared for the former England skipper, Beckham can expect a welcome reception from fans when the Three Lions take on Brazil at Wembley Stadium.

Always among your most searched for stars, Beckham’s Hotlist success peaked in January when he announced a $128 million deal with Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy. A string of high profile appearances alongside missus Victoria, most notably at the Oscars ceremony, kept him in your search sights as he introduced himself to the American public.

Yet over the last few months Beckham has operated largely under the Hotlist radar. Having forced his way back into Madrid coach Fabio Capello’s plans, Becks has done most of his talking on the pitch, playing a starring role as Madrid pursued and passed rivals Barcelona and Seville at the top of the La Liga table.

Playing with his trademark industry and laying on goals for his former Manchester United mucker Ruud van Nistelrooy, only a fool would ignore Beckham on current form and Steve McClaren obliged with a deserved recall. Following the announcement of the England squad, searches for Becks increased by 46% signaling his welcome return to Hotlist’s Sport searches chart.

Have your say: should David Beckham be back in the England team?