Leonardo has revealed that David Beckham is not guaranteed a place in the starting XI when AC Milan take on Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League next week
Milan host the reigning Premier League champions in the San Siro on Tuesday in the first leg of the last-16 stage of the competition and the Brazilian coach has yet to decide whether to include Beckham against his former club.
After starting Milan's first five league games of 2010, Beckham has been a substitute in their last two, although he did play the final 15 minutes of the 3-2 win over Udinese on Friday night.
But Leonardo discarded the notion that former United midfielder Beckham was being saved to face Sir Alex Ferguson's men, insisting he had and will continue to pick the team he believes is best suited for each individual game.
"We know it's a very special match for him," said Leonardo.
"It's very special to play in the Champions League against his own team, let's say it like that.
"But we have got to analyse everything and we have a lot of players in good condition.
"We'll see how everybody is to choose the best team."
Beckham had to wait until late on before taking the place of Ronaldinho, whose spot in the team on Tuesday does not appear to be in any doubt after another inspirational performance against Udinese.
But Leonardo believes Beckham's versatility means the former England captain has a good chance of featuring against his former employers.
"I think he can play anywhere," added Leonardo.
"He's smart and intelligent and tactically he's perfect.
"There are no problems choosing a system or a position for him.
"He's been doing very well this year. He arrived in December and he knows the team and how we play.
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