London: Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello believes David Beckham suffered psychologically after being dropped from the England squad following the World Cup.
Beckham, who has played 94 internationals, resigned as captain after England were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Portugal on penalties – then dropped from the squad by new coach Steve McClaren when he took over in August.
He has not played for England since the defeat by Portugal and has failed to hold a regular starting place for Real Madrid this season.
Capello told Revista De La Liga, Sky Sports' weekly Spanish soccer review programme, that he believes Beckham's omission from the England squad has had a serious impact on the player.
"I think that Beckham is an outstanding professional," Capello said on the programme. "He always gives his best both in training and when he is playing. I firmly believe this. But you also have to keep in mind that a coach needs to have the overall picture in his head in order to achieve certain results.
"In Beckham's case, he has had bad times after being left out of England's national team. Those are moments which produce psychological difficulties. Now he's regaining all his composure. The other day in the Champions League he played very well and now he seems to have become the Beckham we once knew.
"But I think the hardest test for him was to stop being captain of the England team."
Beckham's long-term future at Real is uncertain and, although he is yet to sign a new contract, Capello said he wants him to stay at the club.
"I've always said he should be with us," added Capello. "He is a unique professional."
In the same interview, Capello said Ronaldo needs to lose more weight before returning to the side.
The Italian said he was not happy with the Brazil striker's fitness and has urged him to work hard and regain his form.
"Ronaldo needs to improve his physical condition," continued Capello. "Because after his operation, he was fat. "Now he's losing weight. Not as much as I've asked him to, but he's really trying."
Real have made an erratic start to the season under Capello and are fourth in La Liga, four points behind leaders Sevilla after losing 2-1 at home to Celta Vigo on Sunday.
Comments
0 comment