Beckham ready to accept World Cup fate

David Beckham admits he could be left in the cold when England boss Fabio Capello picks his World Cup squad next summer.

Beckham this week played a central role in helping steer England's 2018 bid back on track, before participating in the draw for next summer's finals in Cape Town, but - with the likes of Theo Walcott, Aaron Lennon, Shaun Wright-Phillips and James Milner all in contention for the right midfield berth - the former captain acknowledges that his participation in the main event is not guaranteed.

The 34-year-old, who is set for a return to Serie A side AC Milan next month, said: "I do not fear being axed for the World Cup. If I don't make the squad it's not going to stop me supporting the team. Nothing is guaranteed, I have discovered that is true in my career. But if I can be part of it then it will be amazing."

He added: "Everybody knows how much I love playing for my country but the manager will pick a squad he thinks will win the competition. That has to be the way.

"If I am not part of that, of course I'd be upset but it is something I would still respect. It would be because the manager felt it was right in terms of his system and having the best players in the team.

"It still hurts that I was left out by Steve McClaren after I had resigned the captaincy but being picked for next summer is not something I take for granted.

"Going to Milan doesn't guarantee anything. It gives me a chance of being in the squad but it doesn't guarantee it."