BEIJING, Dec. 17 -- Fabio Capello says Michael Owen will have to stay fit and continue scoring to return to the England lineup while David Beckham won't be back unless he plays regularly for AC Milan. The England coach, who is preparing for a friendly against Spain in February, has repeatedly overlooked Owen during 2010 World Cup qualifying even though the Newcastle striker has returned to goalscoring form for his club.

Michael Owen (front) of Newcastle United fights for the ball with John Obi Mikel of Chelsea during their English Premier League match at Stamford Bridge, London November 22, 2008.

Capello missed his latest three goals in two games for the Magpies because he was on vacation in South Africa. But he told reporters that, if the striker maintains his form and fitness, he could return to the squad against the Spaniards and try and add to his 40 goals in 89 appearances.

"He's an important player with England," Capello said on Monday, a year after his appointment to revive the national team. "The most important thing is that he will be fit. The last three times he was not fit."

Calf muscle and groin injuries have restricted Owen to 15 appearances this season but he has managed to score nine times. "I just arrived this morning at 5 o'clock so I just read about it," Capello said of Owen's goal and performance in Newcastle's 3-0 victory at Portsmouth on Sunday.

"I know he played very well and scored a goal. The door for the national team is open for all the players."

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