England boss Kevin Keegan has admitted he is concerned about striker Michael Owen's fitness ahead of the friendly with Argentina next month.

Persistent hamstring injuries since the end of last season have hampered the Liverpool striker - but this latest worry is understood to be unconnected to his previous problems.

Owen may well be recalled to the Liverpool side after he missed Monday night's FA Cup defeat at home to Blackburn, but his presence in England's squad for the game on February 23 is still not assured.

Keegan needs to see his first-choice players in action, as he looks to build a team that can launch a serious challenge for the Euro 2000 finals this summer.

The England boss said: "I am concerned about it as Michael's a great player.

"If he's fit, he'll be in an England squad but that will have to be decided by Liverpool and I can only pick up where they leave off."

Youth opportunity

Keegan also revealed that he plans some limited experimentation for the match against Argentina.

Fringe players like Rio Ferdinand, Jonathan Woodgate, Emile Heskey - who could replace Owen - and Steve Froggatt may get a chance to shine.

Keegan will take his time to assess form before naming his squad but admitted: "There will be a little bit of experiment but I haven't got six or seven games to try this or that out for two games.

"So it'll be pretty much an experienced side."

Keegan also insisted that David Beckham would be in the squad despite his red card in Brazil and supportively described the underfire Manchester United midfielder as a "model professional".