Danny Welbeck netted his 16th goal in 39 appearances for the Three Lions in yesterdays 2-0 win over Costa Rica at Elland Road.
His headed effort from Dele Alli’s cross makes him the top scorer in Gareth Southgate’s squad heading for the Russia World Cup.
Welbeck is now within one goal of matching Beckham’s career tally for England and the Arsenal forward admits he is getting excited about the possibility of drawing level with his idol.
“Everybody watched David Beckham growing up, it’s nice to hear I’m one away,” he said.
“Obviously I want to keep on getting more game time for England and scoring more goals.
“I’m looking forward to achieving that but I don’t want to rest on my laurels, I want to keep improving.
“My most outstanding moments watching England were Michael Owen’s goal (against Argentina) in ’98 and Beckham’s free-kick against Greece at Old Trafford.
“He was such an inspiration for players all around the world.”
Despite Welbeck’s impressive goal record in an England shirt, he is far from guaranteed to start their opening match against Tunisia on June 18.
Harry Kane will lead the line but with Jamie Vardy and Marcus Rashord, who scored at Elland Road last night, pushing for a start, Welbeck knows he faces tough competition.
“Marcus scored a hell of a goal and Vards was dangerous through the whole game, there’s a lot of competition in the squad,” said the 27-year-old.
“But I have a good record scoring goals for England. I’ll always make those runs and be there to try and stick it in the back of the net.
“That healthy competition ups everyone’s game. Every time we meet up with the squad there’s great camaraderie, it’s a very enjoyable environment to be in and I’m really excited for the coming weeks.”