Stuart Pearce states its all "footballing reasons" why David Beckham was not chosen. He did his due diligence watching Becks play in the flesh and also watching DVDs of his LA Galaxy performances. It's the Olympics in London, and the least he can do is give a good account of team GB on home soil. There is Senegal and Uruguay to beat which might be easier said than done. Then depending on their position in the group they could meet a very good Mexican or Swiss side, both tough competitors, in the quarterfinals.
If Pearce does well, it could be a nice resume builder for the really big international competitions.
We feel for Beckham. This could have been a nice swansong to bow out to but Pearce's concerns and priorities are also understandable.
And why not? Echoing the sentiments of my fellow footballers, too many superstars of the game have walked away without even the benefit of a salute.
So how's it gonna end for Beckham, really? Sans a place in the England football squad, notoriety? Seems Zidane and countless others are in good company.