Thaindian News

London, Aug 12 (ANI): England coach Fabio Capello almost brought curtains down on ace midfielder David Beckham’s international career by saying that he is probably too old.

David Beckham has been offered an England farewell in a friendly against France but will not play a competitive fixture for England again

Asked if the Three Lions legend would be part of his plans for the Euro 2012 qualifiers, Capello replied: “I say thank you very much for helping me at the World Cup but he is probably, little bit old.”

His comments for a TV interview before England’s 2-1 win over Hungary at Wembley ended one of greatest careers in the country’s football history.

But in a statement sent to the BBC, Beckham’s agent said: “There has been no discussion of retirement. He will always be available for his country, when fit, and if needed he will be there.”

This fits the comedy of ego-struggles and miscommunications that has characterised English football this summer.

The Italian has landed himself with another diplomatic problem by stating the obvious on TV rather than allowing Beckham his choreographed exit.

After the debacle at the World Cup plenty of England players expected to be booted out but it was a non-player who went first: “Coach Beckham”, as he was known after joining the England back-room staff in South Africa.

Capello revealed after the Hungary game that Beckham would be given one more chance to pull on the Three Lions shirt most likely against France on November 17.

“He will play one friendly to say bye bye,” Capello told reporters. (ANI)