Carlo Ancelotti believes David Beckham is fit to play a whole game after naming him in the Paris St Germain squad to face Marseille in the Coupe de France today.

Beckham is set to start the last-16 tie in a defensive midfield role after making his debut as a substitute in the 2-0 Ligue 1 home win over the same opponents on Sunday. He came on in the 76th minute and played a part in the second goal and has impressed Ancelotti enough in training for the coach to say he is ready to start at the Parc des Princes.

Ancelotti has earmarked Beckham to replace the suspended Marco Verratti to play alongside Blaise Matuidi or Clement Chantome in central midfield.

Ancelotti told a press conference: “He will play defensive midfielder. He has the experience and skills to help us.”

When asked about Beckham’s fitness, Ancelotti said: “He is capable of playing a whole match.”