His sweeping right-foot crosses helped his club side Manchester United to the treble last season, and this year Beckham finished second in both the World Player of Year and European Player of the Year votes.

His film star looks and superstar wife have earned him the tag of a high-profile celebrity, but the football media continue to question his big match temperament.

Beckham was forced to endure a barrage of abuse after his controversial sending off against Argentina during France 98, but bounced back to have his best season in domestic football yet.

An exceptional passer, he is also one of the deadliest free-kick takers in Europe and has the ability to become one of the stars of Euro 2000.

Beckham made his international debut against Moldova in 1996.