Capello Pleased to See Beckham's Improving Fitness

This article is from last week but I wanted to post it anyway...

Despite being pleased to see David Beckham making good progress in his recovery from his Achilles' injury, England coach Fabio Capello is no closer to recalling the veteran midfielder. Capello had originally hoped to use Wednesday's friendly against France as a chance for Beckham to draw an end to his England career, after saying that the 35-year-old former captain was too old now for a greater role.

But Beckham rejected that opportunity, while maintaining that he would never retire from international football. And Capello backtracked on his previous announcement to say that the Los Angeles Galaxy player would always be considered for selection.

But while Beckham is virtually clear of his Achilles' tendon injury, he won't be getting a chance to extend the appearance record for an England outfield player to 116 caps on Wednesday. nstead, Beckham is aiming for a second successive Major League Soccer championship game - the MLS Cup - on November 21. The Galaxy plays FC Dallas in the Western Conference finals on Sunday.

"I watched a game that he played - he is getting better," Capello said. "I am really happy with him."

Despite not playing at a fourth World Cup, Beckham went to South Africa in June as part of Capello's backroom staff. "During the World Cup he trained really hard every day," Capello told a briefing. "This period was really important for him because the Achilles' tendon needs a lot of work and a lot of training. The physio did a really good job. You know the door is open for all the players. He has said at this moment he is focused on the games he has to play for LA Galaxy."

But Capello's focus is selecting younger players for qualifying for the 2012 European Championship. And Beckham won't be going on loan to a European team in January like he did with AC Milan the last two years to keep fit during the MLS offseason.
source: Times of India

David's England Career in Numbers

Fabio Capello's decision brings to an end a glittering England career for Beckham, though one which contained ups and downs in equal measure.

Beckham's career in numbers:

115: Beckham earned 115 caps for England, the most for any outfield player and second only to Peter Shilton on England's all-time list of appearance makers.

17: Beckham scored 17 international goals. The first came against Colombia during the group stage of the 1998 World Cup, while the last was against Ecuador in the second round of the 2006 World Cup. Both were from free kicks.

58: He captained England 58 times in total.

3: Beckham became the first England player to score in three World Cups when he scored against Ecuador in Germany.

93: Beckham's 93rd-minute free kick against Greece in a 2002 World Cup qualifier at Old Trafford remains one of the standout moments of his England career.

2: Beckham was the first player ever to be sent off twice for England, after his infamous red card against Argentina in World Cup 1998 and another against Austria seven years later.

0: Number of trophies lifted by Beckham in an England shirt, along with the rest of the so-called Golden Generation.
source: itv.com

Fabio Capello Ends David's England Career

Fabio Capello started the season by ending an era when he blew the final whistle on David Beckham's England career. Capello told the British broadcaster ITV that Beckham is "probably a bit too old" to play for his country again, adding: "I thank (David) very much for helping me at the World Cup.”

When speaking before the England match today, Capello said: "I hope when David is okay he can play here the last game at Wembley in a friendly to say goodbye and thank you very much to the crowd. I won't be picking him for any more competitive matches. David is a fantastic player, he was really important, but we have to see the new players for the future because the age is important for a lot of people, not only for David."

This comes as a shock not only to fans, but to the Beckham camp as well. David and Fabio Capello did not even discuss this matter before the England manager went public. "Did I phone him before I went on television? No. I think I will speak with him. We tried to speak with him. I think David knows that he has no future with the national team because we have to change. It’s only eight people who played in the World Cup are here. I have to change. I have to look for new players. I have to think about the future."

Davids agent reacted to the news by sending BBC Sport a statement which dismissed the prospect of the 35-year-old announcing his retirement in the wake of Capello's frank admission. The statement read: "For your info, there has been no discussion of retirement. He will always be available for his country, when fit and if needed he will be there.''

Steven Gerrard backed Beckham to keep fighting to add to his caps and does not think the former England skipper will take this latest setback lying down. He said: "I'm sure that if he hears that news, it'll drive him on and he'll try to prove people wrong and try to get back in the set-up because I know he loves playing for England. David can hold his head up high for the service he's given to the England team. Legendary status, without a doubt. He's put a long shift in as an England player. He's had some fantastic performances, some fantastic goals, memories. He was a fantastic captain. I've learnt a lot from David and it's been a pleasure to play alongside him. If he has played his last game, he'll certainly be missed because, both on and off the pitch, he's a great guy."

Fellow midfielder Gareth Barry also hopes he adds to his caps: "I'm not sure what David's feelings towards that is. Hopefully, that won't be the end. He'll keep fighting. I know he'll probably want to. Everyone knows what an icon and a legend he is."

I, for one, am in a state of complete shock and a bit of disgust. I can't believe he wasn't contacted before this. For a man of David's calibur and loyalty towards his country, the least thing Capello could have done was discussed this matter with him first. I'm really at a loss for words...
source: ESPN, DailyMail, Telegraph.co.uk

David and the England Squad Arrive at Heathrow

Looking a bit disappointed, David Beckham and the rest of the England National team arrived in London via Heathrow Airport this morning. David was first off the plane followed by the rest of the boys who also had glum looks on their faces - a bit sad since they've been waiting for the World Cup for years.

source: Metro

So Long England

Unfortantely, England suffered a defeat during their last World Cup match against Germany at the Free State Stadium on June 27th in Bloemfontein. The ending score was Germany 4 - England 1 and this loss ultimately put England out of the running.

I wasn't able to watch any of the World Cup action thanks to all that has been going on but I heard drips and drabs about it during the past few days. Anway, better luck next time guys!

source: Zimbio

A Second Draw Disappoints David Beckham

The England National team played against Algeria yesterday and the result was a 0-0 draw. David Beckham was on the bench lending his support all the while looking extremely anxious. This second consecutive draw is said to be extremely disappointing for England. Hopefully next time they will have better luck.

source: Zimbio

Check out David's rather pissed off reaction to a play during the match..

David Trains with England

Even though he can't play on the pitch during the World Cup games, David Beckham still tries his best to keep himself in great form by training as best he can with his England National teammates. Here he is yesterday during a training session held at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus in Rustenburg.

I can't wait until we see him back on the field! I really wanted to go to the NY Red Bulls vs LA Galaxy match again this summer but I think I'll sit this one out... hopefully he'll be back again when they return next year!

source: Zimbio

David Watches England vs the US

On Saturday, the England National team faced the US in their first World Cup match. Even though David is unable to play, he has been along for the ride and attending all practices, press events, and interviews regarding the games so it was fitting to see him there supporting his team on the bench.

The man of the hour wore a 3 piece suit that all of the players have. The ending score was a draw, England - USA 1-1, and this completed England's first round of the World Cup 2010. The game was held at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg. England played in white and USA was in blue.

source: Zimbio

World Cup Day #1

To kick off the World Cup, before the night's festivities, the England team had a training session at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg. David was there to show his support and give the team a hand if need be. He spent the session watching his fellow teammates as well as playing around a bit himself.

England will play the U.S. in a soccer World Cup Group C match on Saturday.

source: DL

Video: David Just Can't Resist

It must really be killing David to be in South Africa with his fellow teammates and not be able to play at all. Here is a cute video where, even though his doctor's would not approve I'm sure, he kicks the soccer ball around before getting "yelled at". Poor thing! But he's such a good sport!

David Visits Pilanesburg National Park

Yesterday, the England National team and Coach David took a safari ride through Pilanesburg National park to explore the lovely wildlife.

Is it me or do they all seem less than thrilled?

source: www.zigazig-ha.com

David Takes in Another Friendly in South Africa

England general manager Franco Baldini, David Beckham, and Sir Trevor Brooking were on deck to watch the friendly match between England and Platinum Stars at the Moruleng Stadium on Monday in Moruleng, South Africa.

source: Zimbio

Coach David

Since David is unable to play in the World Cup, he has been out in South Africa joining the England team, but this time he is acting as a coach. Here he is yesterday at a training session at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus in Rustenburg.

While the players were wearing black suits, David and the other coaches wore red. However, David is not filling in as a permanent coach. Says Capello: "He will help in some moments. He is not a coach and he also trains alone. But he is important because he is one of the symbols of England. It is important he is here and not on holiday. He can speak with the players and find some solutions. He is part of my team."

source: Zimbio & ESPN

David Beckham Arrives in South Africa

Even though he won't be physically playing in this year's World Cup, and ankle injury did not stop the soccer superstar from suiting up and joining the England squad in South Africa. England has nine days of training in South Africa before they face the US in their opening Group C match in Rustenburg on June 12.

Capello's squad stepped off their 11-and-a-half hour flight from Heathrow on Thursday morning at Tambo airport in Johannesburg and were greeted by heavy security. The players were all wearing their official M&S suits.

The team was greeted by musicians and talented young dancers after exiting their airplane. They even met and shook hands with the King of Bafoke.

When asked about Beckham being included and what exactly he brought to the table after suffering an injury, Ferdinand replied with: "He's a great ambassador and has great experience. If I need to ask questions sometimes he might be the person."
source: DailyMail

David Attends the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup

Looking as handsome as ever, David Beckham attended the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup 2010 on Friday at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town, South Africa. Actress Charlize Theron was also there to present.

Click here to read a bit more of the event.
source: Zimbio

David Beckham's Latest Blog

Hi everyone

I thought I’d give you a quick update from my South African trip.

I arrived in Cape Town on Wednesday, along with the England 2018 bid team, and we’ve been in several positive meetings with Sepp Blatter and several of the FIFA Executive Committee members. We all share a love of the game and it was a pleasure to get know them better.

Yesterday we visited a Coaching For Hope football clinic in Khayelithsa with ex-Premier League football Lucas Radebe. I then went on to see for myself a centre for HIV mothers and their babies nearby. I'm amazed by the spirit and strength of the women and children that I met. They are incredible people and I was honoured to be in their company.

This morning we had a few more 2018 meetings, then the launch of the World Cup Ball for Adidas. After that I’m really excited and proud to be part of the World Cup Draw itself. I'm getting ready now and heading to the live draw soon.

Finally on a personal note I just want to thank you to all the people out there who have passed on messages of condolences and kind thoughts for my family at this difficult time. I'm very thankful for your words and support.

Take care

David

*These photos are from the FIFA 2018 World Cup - Bidding Country Media Expo that was held at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town, South Africa. The woman David was photographed with is Helen Zille, Governor of the Western Cape.

source: Zimbio & www.davidbeckham.com

England Wins 3-0 Over Belarus

Tonight was a very exciting match for David Beckham and the England team as they defeated Belarus 3-0 in a world cup qualifier at Wembley Stadium. David came on in the second half as a substitute by Fabio Capello and he admitted he was just happy to have helped the team to win in front of the home supporters.“The most important thing was to get over the weekend loss and end the qualifying campaign on a high," he said.“We didn’t play badly at the weekend so wanted to end by showing just how well we can play. It was an important night for the management, the staff, the players and the fans – we have all done our job. We all have to prove ourselves in every game and training session if we want to be in the team and squad for every game - whether it is a friendly, qualifier or the World Cup.”

David was also named Nationwide Man Of The Match, which was picked by Sunderland boss and Beckham's former Manchester United team-mate Steve Bruce. Since he was only introduced shortly before the hour mark, it came as a surprise to many in the stadium, including David himself. “I’m very surprised," he laughed. "I’m glad that I played with Steve Bruce for so many years!"

On a side note, David also stated (himself not another rumor) that his move to AC Milan is 95% complete. David said: "It's close. I've always said I want to go back there if they want me. AC have said they wanted me back since I left to go back to the United States and they're saying the same now. It's 95% done so I don't know why it wouldn't happen now.'' Since the Galaxy season is drawing to a close, I wonder if this means permanently or another loan spell (according to ESPN it's another loan).. can't wait to hear all the details!

Congratulations to David & England!!

source: TheFA.com, www.zigazig-ha.com, Zimbio