The Chelsea winger, 25, netted his first competitive goal for England to set Steve McClaren's men on their way to a 3-0 victory over Israel at Wembley.

It capped an impressive display from the former Manchester City man, whose career has stalled somewhat since a big-money move to Stamford Bridge during the summer of 2005.

Mullery - who made 35 appearances for the national team and played in the 1970 World Cup finals - believes Wright-Phillips can now cement his place in the England team ahead of former skipper Beckham, currently sidelined with a knee problem as he embarks on a new career with Los Angeles Galaxy in America.

"If Shaun Wright-Phillips plays like that on Wednesday [against Russia], then definitely. He gives you something different and has also looked extremely sharp playing for Chelsea this season," Mullery told BBC Radio Five Live.

"David has been a great distributor of the ball, great from dead ball situations and with his passing ability.

"But what you have got with this boy is a lad who can take people on and beat them with his pace.

"David has never been blessed with pace, nor was I - I did a job.

"David has done his job extremely well over the years, but now you have a new era of player.

"At international level, you have got to have players who can beat people."

Right-back Micah Richards, meanwhile, was also on the scoresheet at Wembley yesterday, heading in his first senior goal for England from a corner during the second half.

Mullery believes the Manchester City defender, 19, is a "great" addition to the England side.

"The boy Richards has a great physique, a lot of pace, and the ability play. Him and Shaun Wright-Phillips made a great pair," said former Tottenham skipper Mullery.

"He is a big powerful presence in the box in all situations."