England skipper David Beckham is already planning his involvement in the 2010 Wo
England skipper David Beckham is already planning his involvement in the 2010 World Cup...
The Three Lions captain arrived in South Africa on Tuesday and not only pledged his support to the country's bid to host the 2010 World Cup, but also revealed his hopes of playing in the competition.
England's friendly match in Durban on Thursday marks the official start of the South African bid for the 2010 World Cup and Beckham is delighted to be able to help a country for which he has so much affection.
"Of course I support South Africa's bid to host the World Cup in 2010," he confirmed. "I'm lucky enough to have played in two World Cups and I think to have it in a country like South Africa would be amazing.
"And, if I look after myself and treat my body right like I always do, then I hope to play in the World Cup here in 2010. I might be 35 then - but only just."
Back to 2003, and Beckham revealed how much he wanted to come and play in this friendly game, despite the fact that he'll sit out England's next two matches against Serbia and Montenegro and Slovakia,
"I wanted to come," he said. "As England captain it's important for me to be here. I sat down and discussed it with the manager and we decided that it was important that I was here. It's an honour to be here.
"We know it's going to be a tough game. It's a massive game for everyone in South Africa and a massive game for everyone in England as it brings the two countries together."
David revealed the extent of his appetite for international football when he confirmed that he had initially wanted to play against Serbia and Montenegro even though suspension was always going to keep him out of the Slovakia game.
"It is true that I wanted to play against Serbia and Montenegro but the manager turned around to me and said that this is the time to get away and have a break.
"I haven't had a proper break for five or six years so if the opportunity is there now I'll take it."
You get the feeling, though, that he might just want to sign off in style...
From Daniel Freedman in Durban
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