However, he has forced his way back into their first team and has produced a string of fine performances.

Beckham, sent off against Real Betis at the weekend, set up two goals as Real won a thrilling Champions League last-16 first-leg clash against Bayern Munich last night.

“It gives me a problem, one of the problems you welcome,” McClaren told Sky Sports News.

“He’s being professional and performing well for his club – obviously that’s a problem I would rather have than not have. It’s interesting.”

McClaren added: “The reaction from every adversity he’s ever gone through in his career, he’s always bounced back and been professional and got on with his job.

“It’s pleasing to see that a month ago he would never play for Real Madrid again and there he is starring in a game against Bayern Munich and being man of the match.”

Beckham’s upturn in form has led to a clamour for his recall to the national side, which he captained until their exit from last summer’s World Cup.

Now he could be considered for a recall in next month’s Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Andorra.