England head coach Fabio Capello has said David Beckham will not figure into the nation's plans for Euro 2012 qualifying, effectively ending the international career of the Three Lions' most capped out-field player. According to Capello, Beckham is "probably a bit too old" to play for England again.
Beckham's 115 appearances for England is the most of any non-goalkeeper, ten short of Peter Shilton's record 125 caps. The former national team captain appeared in three World Cups (1998, 2002, 2006), missing a fourth this summer with an ankle injury. Beckham also represented England at Euro 2004, accumulating 17 goals in his international career.
Capello, in announcing the 35-year-old midfielder does not fit into his Euro 2012 plans, gave his thanks to his former player:
However, even when he recovers from his achilles injury, it seems the LA Galaxy forward will not be required for England's attempt to qualify for Euro 2012. "I say thank you very much for helping me at the World Cup but probably he is a little bit old," Capello told ITV ahead of tonight's friendly with Hungary.