Gary Neville is to give Manchester United a fitness boost.
But I understand Neville has been told by the club's medical staff that he could be ready by the end of August.
And that will give him a chance of being fighting fit to challenge Danny Mills for the England right-back position for the Euro 2004 qualifiers.
Neville, 26, had no chance of a World Cup recovery and underwent surgery on the foot in a bid to make sure he was fit for pre-season training.
Neville's injury was not as straightforward as Beckham's and the defender's rehabilitation cannot be rushed.
And from The Mirror:
Gary Neville is not expected to play again until September.
Neville was hoping to be back for pre-season training before a decision was made to operate on the foot.