By Duncan Mackay
January 3 – David Beckham (pictured) has warned that England must not be arrogant and believe that they are more deserving of hosting the 2018 World Cup than any of its rivals because of its tradition and the worldwide appeal of the Premier League.
Beckham has been credited with revitalising England’s controversial bid following his trip to Cape Town for the 2010 World Cup draw last month when he met several members of FIFA’s Executive Committee, including President Sepp Blatter, who will choose which country will host the 2018 and 2022 tournaments at a meeting in Zurich on December 2.
The former England captain is expected to continue to play a high-profile role in the campaign despite the fact he is set to be picked by Fabio Capello for a record fourth consecutive World Cup in South Africa this year.
Beckham said during an interview broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live today: ”It’s definitely not a burden, I’m honoured to be involved.
“I’m part of a bid to bring the World Cup to my country for the first time in many years and I’ve enjoyed every moment.
“I believe we’ve got a chance of getting it but we have to do a lot of hard work, it’s not just going to be given to us.
“We shouldn’t be arrogant and we shouldn’t expect the World Cup that easily.
“We have to work hard for it.”
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