• London Olympics 2012

Pearce: Beckham doesn't warrant coaching role either

ESPN staff
July 2, 2012
David Beckham was involved in a backroom role at the 2010 World Cup © Getty Images
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After snubbing David Beckham for Team GB's football squad for London 2012, Stuart Pearce has confirmed that the LA Galaxy midfielder will also be overlooked for a backroom role.

Beckham was not included in Pearce's 18-man selection for the Olympics when it was announced on Monday, as Craig Bellamy, Ryan Giggs and Micah Richards were named as the three over-age players alongside the likes of Champions League winner Ryan Bertrand and Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey.

Pearce has now revealed that Beckham will not be involved as one of the seven backroom staff allowed for the tournament either - arguing that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder does not offer enough in a coaching capacity to warrant a role.

Beckham was included as part of Fabio Capello's staff for England's 2010 World Cup campaign after injury had ruled him out of the tournament - acting as a liason between players and the coach, while also offering the Italian advice on some issues.

However, he will not be taking up a similar position this summer.

"That won't be the case with regards to David," Pearce said, when asked if he could be handed a coaching role. "With what he's done to bring the [Olympic] bid to these shores, I for one would champion him for what he's done for the cause.

"But we only have seven [backroom staff] passes. We have no passes for that. The players have to be prepared to come through the door on form alone and that happens to be the case with staffing too; they have their role to play."

However, Team GB chef du mission Andy Hunt acknowledged that the 37-year-old could be involved with the squad in a wider capacity - with discussions underway as to how he might be utilised.

"We'd be delighted and honoured to have David Beckham related to Team GB more broadly," Hunt said. "That would be fantastic.

"I've made contact with his representatives over the weekend and we'll see how that moves forward."

There have also been widespread reports that Beckham could be in line for a role in the opening ceremony at the Olympics - with some even suggesting that he could be asked to light the stadium torch.

In the meantime, the Englishman will focus his attention on representing the LA Galaxy, as the MLS season continues.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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