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Madrid — Real Madrid has called David Beckham into its squad for the first time in a month.
His selection for Saturday's match against Real Sociedad represents a reversal by coach Fabio Capello, who said the former England captain would never again play for the team after his announcement last month that he would leave for the Los Angeles Galaxy when his contract expires.
Real Madrid said on its website Beckham was included in a 20-man squad.
"It is big news, which David learned of this morning and for which he was congratulated by his colleagues during the training session," Madrid said.
Beckham was last picked for Madrid as a substitute in the 2-0 loss at Deportivo La Coruna on Jan. 7.
Since then, Capello said Beckham would train with the team but never play again.
Beckham was quoted Thursday by sports daily Marca as saying he was "desperate to play again."
"I'm having a bad time. I'd like to help the team," he allegedly said.
Beckham has signed a five-year deal with the Galaxy, reportedly worth more than US$250 million). Madrid had offered the former England captain a two-year extension to his current contract, which runs until the end of June.
Madrid has won two and lost two league games since Beckham was dropped. It has also been eliminated from the Copa del Rey, adding pressure on Capello.
Madrid is fourth in the league with 38 points, five behind leader FC Barcelona. Madrid also plays Bayern Munich in the second round of the Champions League on Feb. 20 and March 7.
