England coach Fabio Capello backs David Beckham for Olympics

  • Published
England coach Fabio Capello and David Beckham
Image caption,

Beckham first played under Capello at Real Madrid in 2006

England coach Fabio Capello believes David Beckham will be part of Great Britain's Olympic football squad at next year's London 2012 Games.

However, Capello has confirmed that the former England captain, 36, who plays for Los Angeles Galaxy in the United States, will not feature at Euro 2012.

Beckham, who won the last of his 115 England caps two years ago, is known to be keen to play at the Olympics.

Capello said: "I think he will only be involved in the Olympic Games."

The Italian effectively ended Beckham's hopes of adding to his England appearances, external in August 2010 when the Italian said: "David is a fantastic player but I think we need new players for the future."

Beckham, who has stated he will never formally retire from international football, made his last international appearance as a substitute against Belarus in a World Cup qualifier in October 2009.

He did not play at the 2010 World Cup after rupturing his Achilles but he was taken to South Africa as a mediator between management and players.

However, when asked if he would use Beckham in a similar role in Poland next year, Capello said "I don't know. I have time to decide."

For the latest updates throughout the day follow Sportsday Live., external Have your say on Twitter using the hashtag #bbcsportsday., external

Around the BBC

Related internet links

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.