Team GB boss Pearce deals David Beckham's Olympic dreams a final blow by denying him a backroom role
Team GB head coach squad Stuart Pearce has confirmed David Beckham will not be offered a backroom role following his selection snub.
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Reports surfaced in the aftermath of the 18-man squad confirmation that suggested the veteran midfielder could take up a position similar to the one he occupied under Fabio Capello during England’s disastrous 2010 World Cup campaign in South Africa.
Heartbroken: David Beckham holds the Olympic torch earlier this year. PIC/Getty Images
However, Pearce has confirmed that no such opportunity is in the offing, stating that the former Manchester United midfielder does not offer enough coaching experience to warrant taking up one of the seven places available for backroom staff. “That won’t be the case with regards to David. 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,” said Pearce.
However, Team GB chef de 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.”u00a0
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