LONDON - David Beckham's chance of starting for England improved when teammate Aaron Lennon withdrew Sunday from games against Brazil and Estonia because of a knee injury.

The 20-year-old Tottenham winger limped off after 10 minutes of Friday's England "B" victory over Albania. A scan on Saturday ruled him out of an exhibition against Brazil on June 1 at Wembley and the European Championship qualifier at Estonia on June 6, according to the English Football Association.

Beckham was recalled to the England team this week by coach Steve McClaren after being overlooked for nine matches since last year's World Cup.

After replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson at the end of the World Cup, McClaren dropped Beckham, the former England captain. McClaren said he didn't see a future on the team for the 32-year-old Real Madrid midfielder.

Beckham's recently improved play prompted McClaren to change his mind

Beckham, who has played 94 games for his country, signed a deal to play for the MLS's Los Angeles Galaxy next month.