Beckham back after masterclass in dignity

By Mitch Phillips

LONDON (Reuters) - David Beckham has delivered another soccer masterclass but instead of his ball skills it has been his dignified response to rejection by club and country that has earned the 32-year-old the plaudits this season.

Last August Beckham found himself the victim of new England manager Steve McClaren's bid to stamp his authority on the job when he was deemed surplus to requirements after 10 years as an indispensable member of the national team.

The Real Madrid midfielder had already given up the captaincy in a tearful sign-off from England's disappointing 2006 World Cup campaign but must have expected it would not be long before he reached the magical 100 cap mark.

When McClaren decided otherwise, however, Beckham took it on the chin. There were no harsh words, no vitriolic closing of the door as instead he vowed to keep working hard.

Whenever asked about the issue Beckham said repeatedly that playing for England had been the highlight of his career and he would always remain available for his country.

McClaren said it was not necessarily a final decision but it certainly looked as if Beckham's 94th cap -- the penalty shootout defeat by Portugal in the World Cup quarter-finals -- would be his last.

TWILIGHT ZONE

His career seemed to be easing into a more comfortable twilight zone when in January Beckham announced he would move to LA Galaxy at the end of the season in a five-year deal worth an eye-watering $250 million.