Fabio Capello has admitted he failed to tell former England skipper David Beckham of his decision to end his international career. He also revealed that Becks will be given a chance to ay goodbye to fan in a friendly match.
Capello let slip in a TV interview prior to the friendly international with Hungary on Wednesday evening that he had called time on England's most capped outfield player. But he revealed afterwards that he had not had any contact with the LA Galaxy player who is currently recovering from an Achilles injury.
Capello said: "I hope when David is okay he can play here the last game at Wembley in a friendly to say goodbye and thank you very much to the crowd."
But it is another public relations gaffe by the Italian after Beckham had assisted him during the World Cup finals in South Africa in a non-playing capacity.
Capello added: "I won't be picking him for any more competitive matches.
"David is a fantastic player, he was really important, but we have to see the new players for the future because the age is important for a lot of people, not only for David.
"Did I phone him before I went on television? No. I think I will speak with him. We tried to speak with him.
"But I think David knows he has no future with the international team because we have to change. We tried to speak with him."
When quizzed over Beckham finding out through the media over his decision, Capello added: "Yes, I know, but I have to change everything.
"Only eight people who played in the World Cup are here. I have to change and look for new players for the future."
BECKHAM BACK IN TRAINING
Meanwhile, Beckham returned to full training with Los Angeles Galaxy - on the same day that Capello indicated that his international career may be over.
The 35-year-old is returning from the Achilles tendon injury that forced him to miss out on the World Cup in South Africa in the summer, and is hoping to return to MLS action early in October.
Beckham, speaking to the media before England coach Capello said in a TV interview prior to the friendly against Hungary that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was "too old" for the international game, said: "I am happy to be back of course, it was my first day on the field with the guys.
"It's been a while but I got through the whole session very well. I'm feeling good. I just need to make sure that it's repaired and then I'm good to go.
"I've been waiting for this for almost five months. Obviously there's an air of caution that I still have to take because I don't want to re-rupture it and be out again.
"I have to take my time, it's about my memory reprogramming itself for the tendon, then I have to get the strength back and I'll be good."
Beckham was also asked if was thinking of a to return to AC Milan in the new year, having joined the Italian side on loan in each of the last two seasons.
But, he said: "No, my focus is the team and repairing my tendon, that's the biggest thing for me.
"Hitting it so hard for the last two years, every month, all year round has been obviously tough on my body.
"It's about getting back this season as soon as possible. Playing as soon as possible, then taking the time to get the rest in and repair my body and be ready for next season."