I have never been what you might describe as a "fan" of David Beckham.
But, I think like most of the country, the qualifying campaign for 2002, and the tournament itself brought me round to be an honest, affectionate admirer of the man.
David Beckham proved that for some at least, being a multi-millionaire doesn't disqualify you from total commitment.
His commitment to the England shirt made him an awesome England captain. The 2002 campaign was the best since 1990, and hasn't been bettered since, and it was partially because no matter what the flaws and weaknesses in the talent pool and the weird tactical ideas of Sven that team fought its guts out for 90 minutes.
Well for 120 minutes usually, before an awful shoot-out disaster.
Contrast this with the 2010 "golden team". Who strolled and sulked and rolled over and died with no pride and no commitment, proving that being a multi-millionaire does indeed hinder commitment for anyone of lesser character.
Beckham has not retired. He has never complained about being a squad player, he has always been committed to be there if needed, in any role needed. He has been retired by Capello. But i predict that if he were asked to turn up in the next squad, despite low hope of starting - he would be there.
Beckham is classy.
Compare with Paul Robinson.
I accept Paul can give up on international football. He was dropped. Then, somewhat surprisingly he is asked to have another go, despite performances against Croatia that were more howler-filled than even poor Robert Green managed.
what does he do with that opportunity for redemption?
He says no. But he says it in the worst possible way!
he proudly says that he couldnt make the decision before... because he hadn't been asked. Actually of course he could have made a phone call at any time and said he was retiring. instead he wanted to be wanted so he could take the infantile joy of snubbing the request.
Robinson ~ NOT classy.
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