Beckham left out of Brits’ Olympic team

LONDON - Agence France-Presse

AP photo

David Beckham’s dream of playing in the Olympics he helped secure for his hometown came to an end yesterday after he was left out of Great Britain’s squad for the Games.

In a surprise announcement, Beckham confirmed he had not made the final 18-man squad as one of coach Stuart Pearce’s three over-age players for the London event.

“Everyone knows how much playing for my country has always meant to me,” Beckham said in a statement. “So I would have been honored to have been part of this unique Team GB squad. Naturally I am very disappointed, but there will be no bigger supporter of the team than me. And like everyone, I will be hoping they can win the gold.

“As a Londoner I was really proud to have played a small part in bringing the Olympics to my home town ... and I can’t wait for the Games to begin and will enjoy every moment along with the rest of Great Britain.”

British media reports said the three over-age players chosen by Pearce were Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs, defender Micah Richards and Welshman Craig Bellamy.

Beckham, 37, had spoken of his desire to play in an Olympics staged in London despite accusations from critics that his participation would devalue the football tournament.