From Times Online
March 15, 2010

Missing World Cup is a big blow to David Beckham, says Fabio Capello

Frank Praverman

Fabio Capello has spoken of his sadness at David Beckham's World Cup plight.

The England coach telephoned the midfielder after he ruptured his Achilles tendon while playing on loan for AC Milan against Chievo and admitted then that the LA Galaxy player's chances of making it to the finals, which begin on June 11, look bleak.

Beckham's surgeon, Dr Sakari Orava, who will operate later today, this morning revealed that it takes a minimum of four months for a player to regain full fitness after an injury of this type.

"I am very sad for David that he has suffered this injury," Capello said. "We have to wait for the results of the scan, but it looks like he is out of the World Cup."

"I spoke with him after the game on Sunday night to offer my support, as did Franco Baldini [Capello's assistant manager].

"David is a great professional and has worked very hard to be ready for the World Cup, so missing it will be a big blow."

Beckham's spokesman said that the former England captain is devastated. "Victoria {Beckham's wife] is flying out to him immediately because of the injury. She's naturally worried about him," he said.