David Beckham Tells Tyson Fury: 'It's More Important to Be a Good Role Model'

Former England captain David Beckham has become the latest to have a say on the Tyson Fury Sports Personality of the Year debate after the controversial boxer came fourth at Sunday night's award ceremony in Belfast.

Fury was shortlisted for the award after beating Wladimir Klitschko to become heavyweight champion of the world in November, but his nomination was marred by controversy following comments he made regarding homosexuality and paedophilia.

Beckham defended Fury's place on the shortlist, pointing out that he is "a world champion at the end of the day" to the Huffington Post UK (via Joe.co.uk), but he added a few words of advice for the boxer:

"

In the sporting world, when you've been successful, it's a big thing, but it's more important to be a good role model. When you're at the top, when you're at the highest point in your sport, being a role model is even more important than anything else. He's done well in the ring, let's hope he continues to do well in and outside it.

"

Beckham courted controversy himself throughout his career, attracting plenty of criticism following his red card in the 1998 World Cup round of 16 against Argentina, but he went on to become a national icon after successful spells in England, Spain, Italy, France and the U.S.

[h/t Joe.co.uk]