David Beckham has acknowledged that his return to Milan on loan will not guarantee him a place in England’s squad for the World Cup in South Africa.
The 34-year-old has agreed to rejoin Milan in January from Los Angeles Galaxy following a similar arrangement last season.
Beckham admits the only reason he is prepared to spend so much time away from his family is to boost his prospects of being included in Fabio Capello’s squad for the World Cup.
“It’s the only reason I am choosing to be away from my family for six months,” Beckham told Fox Sports Radio about his desire to play at the World Cup.
“Being in the World Cup squad is not guaranteed, even if I go to Milan it is not guaranteed, but I need to do everything possible to give myself a chance.
“It’s always a roller-coaster in my career … and it is going to be like that for the next six to eight months, but I am looking forward to it.”
He added: “The biggest thing for me is I go away and leave my family for six months. They come over and see me for a week every eight weeks.
“Anyone who knows me knows how I feel about my children, about my wife and my family and I hate being away from them. Being away from my family and my children kills me.”
Christmas special offer – Subscribe to World Soccer magazine today and Save up to 32%
