Capello boosts Beckham's hopes of World Cup trip
Sunday, 13 September 2009
LONDON, Sept 12 (AP): England coach Fabio Capello has given a strong indication that David Beckham will make it to a fourth World Cup, hailing the former captain's ability to bring the squad together.
The 34-year-old Beckham made his 114th international appearance as England routed Croatia 5-1 on Wednesday to qualify for next year's tournament with two games to spare. Beckham is 11 games shy of the English record for appearances, held by goalkeeper Peter Shilton.
"He is always with us because for me he is one of the most important players," Capello said Thursday. "He is good in the group. He is good in every moment during the training. Some players are important for the position and morale of the group."
But to make Capello's cut, Beckham will have to leave Major League Soccer's Los Angeles Galaxy in January to rejoin AC Milan or find another top European club. Capello said Beckham must stay fit during MLS's offseason.
If Beckham avoids injury or a deterioration in form, he could take Shaun Wright-Phillips' place on the 23-man roster. Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon are Capello's speedy options on the right flank, but Beckham provides a different threat with precision crosses and free kicks.
Having been left out of Italy's squad for the 1978 World Cup, Capello knows the pain of missing out on a major tournament.
While English players speak of fearing Capello, the man himself tries to dispel the image. He doesn't even mind players complaining to him about why they aren't being selected.
The 34-year-old Beckham made his 114th international appearance as England routed Croatia 5-1 on Wednesday to qualify for next year's tournament with two games to spare. Beckham is 11 games shy of the English record for appearances, held by goalkeeper Peter Shilton.
"He is always with us because for me he is one of the most important players," Capello said Thursday. "He is good in the group. He is good in every moment during the training. Some players are important for the position and morale of the group."
But to make Capello's cut, Beckham will have to leave Major League Soccer's Los Angeles Galaxy in January to rejoin AC Milan or find another top European club. Capello said Beckham must stay fit during MLS's offseason.
If Beckham avoids injury or a deterioration in form, he could take Shaun Wright-Phillips' place on the 23-man roster. Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon are Capello's speedy options on the right flank, but Beckham provides a different threat with precision crosses and free kicks.
Having been left out of Italy's squad for the 1978 World Cup, Capello knows the pain of missing out on a major tournament.
While English players speak of fearing Capello, the man himself tries to dispel the image. He doesn't even mind players complaining to him about why they aren't being selected.