David Beckham can still play key role at the World Cup, insists John Terry

Simon Johnson
6 Oct 2009

England captain John Terry believes David Beckham deserves to be in the squad at the World Cup in South Africa next year even though he might not play.

Beckham, who has been called up for the final two World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Belarus, has started just two matches in the last 13 months for his country.

Coach Fabio Capello has preferred to use him as a substitute at the end of games and it has prompted criticism that the former England skipper is denying some younger talent a chance to thrive.

Terry insists Beckham, who has a record 114 caps as an outfield player for England, will be hugely influential on the country's bid to win the World Cup whether he is in the team or not.

When asked if the midfielder should be given the chance to participate in South Africa, Terry said: "He plays a massive part in the squad. He has always made me feel welcome and still does that with everyone now.

"His performances whether they be for LA Galaxy or AC Milan have been brilliant and he has been great for England as well.

"Whether he has started the game or come on as a substitute he has done fantastically well. He trains extremely hard and is a great example for everyone in the squad. He also passes on advice at half-time and plays a key role." England qualified for next summer's tournament with two games to spare because of their 100 per cent record in Group Six and competition for places in Capello's squad is fierce.

But it will grow even more intense once Joe Cole and Theo Walcott return to match fitness.

Beckham will be 35 when the World Cup starts next summer and is set to join AC Milan on loan from LA Galaxy in January in order to stay in Capello's plans. The former Manchester United star has appeared in five major tournaments so far having played in the World Cup in 1998, 2002 and 2006, as well as the European Championships in 2000 and 2004.

Capello will be allowed to take a squad of 23 to South Africa and is expected to give some fringe members of the England set-up a chance to impress against Ukraine on Saturday and Belarus the following Wednesday.