Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham was not included in the final 18-man roster for Team Great Britain for the 2012 London Olympics.
There had been speculation earlier in the MLS season that Beckham's form may not be good enough to make the team. I didn't want to put much stock in that as a Galaxy fan as the whole team was not playing at their best and there was still time to turn things around. The Galaxy certainly have made great strides over the last week by earning nine points from three matches. Beckham is once again leading the Galaxy in assists and three of his five assists have come in the last five matches.
Beckham responded to the decision of Great Britain coach Stuart Pearce on Thursday in a statement. Beckham said, "Everyone knows how much playing for my country has always meant to me, so I would have been honored to have been part of this unique Team GB squad. Naturally I am very disappointed, but there will be no bigger supporter of the team than me. And like everyone, I will be hoping they can win the gold."
Due to the rules of the men's Olympic soccer competition, teams are only allowed three over-age players (meaning over the age of 23) on the roster. Beckham, 37, has reportedly been left off the team in favor of Micah Richards, Ryan Giggs and Craig Bellamy. Richards is a 24-year-old defender for Manchester city. Giggs, 38, is a midfielder who plays for Manchester United and could be a candidate to wear the captain's armband. Bellamy, 32, is a forward for Liverpool.
It's too bad that Beckham, who was instrumental in helping London secure their Olympic bid, was left off the roster. With the U.S. not qualifying for the Olympics in men's soccer, there won't be much for MLS fans to cheer about at the Olympics. So far the only confirmed MLS player to make a final roster is Jake Gleeson. Gleeson was selected as a goalkeeper for New Zealand and is a backup keeper for the Portland Timbers.
More from Patrick Johnston:
David Beckham nominated for 'Best MLS Player' ESPY
Galaxy jump to No. 10 in Week 16 MLS Power Rankings
Landon Donovan named MLS Player of the Week
Sources:
Martin Rogers, "David Beckham left off Great Britain Olympic Team", Yahoo Sports
Stats from MLS Soccer.com
