David Beckham: World Cup Heartbreak Is Not a Big Deal for England

As David Beckham's Achilles tendon gave way last night, there were audible gasps of horror from supporters of the England football team.

But not from those that filled the terraces, following the Three Lions home and away. Those were supporters of a different kind—a financial kind.

There is nobody to whom the Beckham injury is a bigger blow than sponsors. I'd even argue that there is nobody else in England to whom it's a serious blow at all.

David Beckham has slid, in four years, from a staple of the England side, key to it's success, to being overlooked as plan b during a key World Cup warm-up game.

Yet his image remains as strong as ever.

An honest reflection on the state of the England squad reveals, in the cold light of day, that there was no real place for Beckham anyway.

Capello wasn't even guaranteed to take him.

Where would he slot in? Walcott shows signs of life, Lennon is on his way back to fitness, Wright-Phillips has shown that he can deliver for England, and James Milner is the form selection.

In the middle of the park, he's not going to muscle his way into the Lampard, Gerrard, Barry, and Carrick quartet of options.

And Glen Johnson's return to fitness has slammed the door even on him doing a job at right back.

One can always bemoan the loss of his set piece delivery, but let's not forget that, in Gerrard and Lampard, England boast effective free kick specialists from two big four clubs.

These days, that is where Beckham's plus points pretty much end.

He is slow, second to the tackle, and does not fit into Capello's system. He was also, before his injury, worryingly short of form.

If England are to challenge for the World Cup, they must base their bid for success around Rooney. It therefore makes sense to build the team to his benefit.

Capello has shown, in his time as England boss, a preference for pacy wingers who can beat a man, reach the byline, and require double-marking lest they tear fullbacks to shreds. This requirement can only have been confirmed in the light of Rooney's stellar partnership with Antonio Valencia at United.

These are not tools that Beckham has in his locker.

So, whilst it is a tragedy on a personal level for a man who is a true modern legend, bidding to become the first England player to play in four successive World Cups, it's not so much a tragedy for the England team.

It could quite possibly have absolutely no impact whatsoever.