Capello Right To Axe Beckham

Fabio Capello has made the correct decision leaving David Beckham out of the latest England squad. Beckham has had a lengthy and rewarding international career but the time has come to step aside and leave with dignity. It seems that this is the last thing on Beckham’s mind as he desperately tries to prolong his international career.

It is thought that one of the reasons Beckham is so keen to continue playing is a desire to break the record for the most appearances by an England player. The current record is 125 caps held by former goalkeeper Peter Shilton. In recent England matches, we have witnessed the pitiful sight of Beckham appearing as a substitute for the final few minutes seemingly just to chalk up yet another cap.

Another reason is likely to be the various business interests which depend on Beckham continuing to play at a high level of professional soccer. The player’s money making exploits are often referred to as Brand Beckham. This should have no bearing whatsoever on whether a player is chosen to represent his country.

Representing your country is arguably the highest accolade that players can receive and England caps should not be handed out for the sake of breaking personal milestones. It is widely accepted in football circles that Beckham is no longer the player he was and playing for LA Galaxy in the American MLS competition does not help matters.

Because of the amount of air travel involved in flying from the United States to join up with the England squad, there will always be concerns over his fitness levels. The transfer to LA Galaxy was considered to be more about the glamour of Los Angeles rather than the football aspect. A short term loan move to AC Milan for fitness reasons shows how desperate he has become.

During his career clubs have been keen to cash in on the name of David Beckham and some would say England and the Football Association welcome his continued involvement for that reason. The argument for his inclusion is the positive influence he has on the rest of the squad but if this is true then he could always be groomed as a coach.

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