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Craig HillCapello's big mistake
January 31st 2008 13:31
At the time of writing, Fabio Capello is yet to name the England squad for the 6th February international friendly against Switzerland at Wembley. However, news has broken that David Beckham will not be included in the squad.
I believe this is a bad mistake by Capello, and I would have expected his advisors, including Stuart Pearce, to advise him against this course of action.
Beckham is not universally hero worshipped, but to many England fans, his attitude, performances and pride in playing for England have been the brightest spark over the past few dim years.
He has 99 caps and is very deserving of the 100th. Capello could have named in the squad, put him on the bench and brought him on as a sub in the 89th minute to get the standing ovation that he deserves. Once that was done, Capello could have put Becks on the plane to LA, waved goodbye and never spoken to him again if he didn't want to.
By not selecting him, Capello is showing a lack of understanding of the English, and also making the same mistake that his predecessor Steve McLaren made. We won't all think, 'Wow, Capello is his own man and has made a brave decision.' We will think that he has shown no sentiment or respect to England's finest player of the last few years, and has made a pointless decision just for the sake of making it.
I am very disappointed. Whoever else he names in his squad, or leaves out, the news that he has not allowed Becks to get his 100th cap will overshadow it. It is a very petty decision.
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Comment by charles
ZCars
Ponderous
At the very least, I think this decision leaves the door open for Beckham to force his way back into the side once the MLS season kicks off again.
Sure, Capello could have brought on Beckham in the 89th minute of the game against Switzerland for his 100th cap to rapturous applause and then draw the curtain close on his international career...for good.
But he hasn't done that. He is waiting to award Beckham his 100th cap when he is match-fit and worthy of a place in the squad, just like every other player.
Mark my words - we have not seen the last of David Beckham in an England shirt just yet.