Beckham undergoes op

Successful surgery for midfielder

Last updated: 15th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

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Fabio Capello is looking forward to working with David Beckham again after the midfielder had successful surgery on his torn Achilles tendon.

Beckham sustained the injury during AC Milan's 1-0 victory over Chievo on Sunday night and it was soon clear that he would not be able to play any part in this summer's World Cup.

Beckham, 34, was quickly booked in for an operation and he went under the knife on Monday afternoon, with the procedure lasting 50 minutes.

He will now begin a lengthy rehabilitation process but England manager Capello has offered words of encouragement for the future.

Capello insists he will not now close the door on Beckham's international career as he would like to be able to call on him for the Euro 2012 qualifiers, which kick off in the autumn.

"I am really sorry for David's injury but I hope he will be fit in a short time," Capello told Sky Sports News.

"This is the life of a player. It is always dangerous.

"We hope he will be fit for next year. I hope he will be fit for the Euros because he is always one of the best players in England."

Smooth surgery

It is understood that Beckham had totally ruptured his Achilles rather than suffering a partial tear, but surgeon Sakari Orava has revealed there were no major problems.

"So far everything is fine," said Orava. "The operation went smoothly and nicely."

Asked whether Beckham would be able to play for England in South Africa, Orava replied: "No, I don't think so....healing takes a long time.

Beckham's foot will be in a cast for around six to eight weeks, after which he can start 'more vigorous' physiotherapy.

LA Galaxy

Beckham's next challenge once he recovers will be to find form and fitness with Los Angeles Galaxy later this year.

LA Galaxy general manager and head coach Bruce Arena has reassured Beckham he will be welcome back at the Major League Soccer club and that he remains an important player for them.

Arena said: "Injuries are an unfortunate part of our game and they are even more disappointing when they happen to a player who was so close to realising his dream of representing his nation at this summer's World Cup.

"We will give David our complete support to make sure that he is able to get himself back to full health before he returns to the field.

"David remains an important player for the Galaxy and we look forward to welcoming him back to the club and assisting him in his recovery."

Comments (2)

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Lee Halliday (Arsenal fan) says...

Beckham will be missed, but this gives the likes of Theo and Wright-Phillips the chance to show that Beckham wont be missed. Beckham is a big influence, but we still have Rooney, Terry, Rio and Gerrard who are also big influences on our national team. England need to show the world an England side without Beckham. We need to move on. Beckham was the past, lets look forwards the future.

Posted 22:25 15th March 2010

Tony Baldwin (Charlton Athletic fan) says...

david beckham was the best player ive ever seen, he could change a game in a second and deliver a ball on a plate, he was a legend and always be remembered through out football round the world we will all miss him. good luck becks

Posted 20:08 15th March 2010
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