Beckham may miss start of US tour

David Beckham and Michael Owen could miss the start of England's American summer tour, unless Real Madrid agree to Sven-Goran Eriksson's request to release them early.

The trip to the United States at the end of May clashes with the end of Spain's Primera Liga season.

With Barcelona virtually guaranteed the championship, Real are playing for second place and an automatic spot in the Champions League for next season.

If that is not secured before the last weekend of the season, on May 28-29, England coach Eriksson will be forced to travel without skipper Beckham and striker Owen.

England play the United States in Chicago on 28 May, and the Football Association are aware of the added value to the American audience by the presence of Beckham.

They know it would heighten interest considerably if he was there.

If Real refuse to release them, Beckham and Owen will join up with the squad for the match against Colombia on 31 May in New York.