Becks not finished yet

Former skipper sets his sights on 2010 World Cup

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 31st May 2008

Football England David Beckham Estonia 2007

Beckham: Still dangerous

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David Beckham insists that he is still capable of performing at the level he was a decade ago.

The midfielder made his international debut back in 1996, and despite racking up more than 100 caps for his country since then is adamant that he can still be the heartbeat of the England side.

The winger's ability, temperament and motivation have all been questioned throughout his glittering career, but the 33-year-old appears to thrive in the face of adversity.

He remains arguably the world's greatest set-piece specialist and has looked sharp in recent fixtures, despite now plying his trade in the much-maligned MLS with the LA Galaxy.

With it becoming clear that the former Manchester United ace is reluctant to call time on his own international career, he is determined to enjoy the time he has left on football's biggest stage while he still can.

Wrinkles

"People will always question whether I can still play at this level but I want to carry on. I am not ready to stop playing for my country," said Beckham.

"I have a few more wrinkles now, but I still feel I can do what I did 10 years ago.

"I was happy with my performance against France in March, my first game under Fabio Capello, and it was the same against the United States the other night (Wednesday). I was happy to set up the opening goal.

"When you have worked on things during the week, like where the players have to run and where I have to put the ball, and it comes off in a game, it makes you happy.

"People have always talked about my set-pieces and what I can bring to the team. I can bring a lot more to the team than set-pieces but it is one of my strongest things that I can do in the game.

"There is always a chance if I get a set-piece that I'll put it in the right place for someone to score."

Ambition

Currently preparing for a friendly date against Trindad and Tobago on Sunday, Beckham is convinced that he can remain part of Capello's plans up to and including the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

"The manager has said if I stay fit and I am performing, then I've got a chance to be in the squad and that's all I can ask for," he said.

"At the moment I am taking each game as it comes - and who knows what is around the corner?

"But I've played in three World Cups and I know how much it means to the country so I would love to still be playing in 2010 and be at the World Cup in South Africa."