LONDON - DAVID Beckham has been axed from Fabio Capello's 23-man England squad for Wednesday's friendly against Germany in Berlin, while there was a surprise call-up for Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne.

Capello left out Beckham because the LA Galaxy midfielder hasn't played since the Major League season ended on Oct 26.

Beckham is due to join AC Milan on loan in January and could get the chance to equal Bobby Moore's tally of 108 caps in England's next friendly against Spain in February.

Mancienne, 20, is yet to play a game for Chelsea but Capello has been impressed by his performances on loan for Championship leaders Wolverhampton and the England Under-21 team.

Uncapped Aston Villa duo Gabriel Agbonlahor and Curtis Davies are also included, as is John Terry even though the England captain is due to have a scan on a foot injury he suffered in Chelsea's 3-0 win at West Bromich on Saturday.

There were also recalls for in-form Tottenham striker Darren Bent and Manchester City pair Micah Richards and Joe Hart.

Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney were absent after missing Manchester United's win over Stoke with injuries. -- AFP