Beckham: Still capable

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David Beckham insists that playing in the American MLS will not have a detrimental effect on his form and fitness.

The LA Galaxy superstar has faced mounting criticism for his decision to move Stateside while still considered to be among the finest players of his generation.

However, he has made a mockery of those who doubted him by not only forcing his way back into the England set-up, but regaining the captain's armband for the 3-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday.

It remains to be seen how long the 33-year-old can cope with the demands of constant transatlantic travel but he has once again reiterated his desire to be part of Fabio Capello's plans for the 2010 World Cup, provided England qualify.

Improving

"The standard in the USA is higher than anyone thinks and expects," said the midfielder.

"America is a great place to play and the standard is improving all the time. People say 'can you play at this level or that level' but it doesn't change me as a player.

"I'm always going to be the same player - whether I'm playing in Spain, England or the USA. That won't affect my game.

"I can switch from playing in the USA at the weekend to then playing on a Wednesday against one of the best teams in the world and the best players in the world.

"I'll always be the same player that, if given two or three yards, I can cross a ball into the danger area.

Exciting

"People have said I've lost my pace but I've never had a major amount of pace anyway. I have never really been someone who has gone past players.

"Fitness-wise, I feel I can carry on for a few years. If I felt I couldn't carry on, maybe I'd turn around and retire from international football but that is not the case.

"Of course, things can change. At the moment I am taking each game as it comes. Who knows what is around the corner? You can have extreme highs and lows.

"I've had those in the last couple of years but I wouldn't be putting myself forward if I couldn't physically do it still. I still feel I can perform at the highest level and it is exciting to play again under Fabio Capello who is a great manager.

"I want to be part of the squad for the 2010 World Cup if at all possible. The manager has already said if I stay fit and I am performing, then I've got a chance to be in the squad."

Passionate

Beckham's place in the side has come under pressure from David Bentley of late, but the former Manchester United ace accepts that he may not always be first choice.

"There are a lot of young players coming through, good players, and you have to accept sometimes that you're not going to start," he said.

"But you'll accept anything if you're still part of the squad. I'm a very passionate person about playing for my country and I want that to continue as long as possible.

"I want that to continue whether I'm a squad player, a sub or a player who comes on and takes a free-kick. If I can play at the highest level, I want to be a part of that still."