Beckham quits as England skipper

David Beckham has quit as captain of the England team after leading 58 games during nearly six years in the job.

The midfielder appeared to be close to tears as he read out a statement at a press conference following England's quarter-final defeat to Portugal.

He said he would like to continue to play for England, adding that the decision had been a hard one to make.

The 31-year-old said: "I feel the time is right to pass on the armband as we enter a new era under Steve McClaren."

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He added: "I have lived the dream. I am extremely proud to have worn the armband and been captain of England and for that I will always be grateful."

The Real Madrid player also made a point of thanking Peter Taylor who made Beckham captain in 2000.

With tears in his eyes, the former Manchester United player read out a statement he wrote on Saturday night.

He said: "On 15 November 2000 Peter Taylor gave me the greatest honour of my career in making me the captain of England, fulfilling my childhood dream.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to have captained our country and I want to stress that I wish to continue to play for England and look forward to helping both the new captain and Steve McClaren in any way I can."

Injury

Beckham was forced to leave the pitch on Saturday, 52 minutes into the game after he suffered an injury to his leg. He said he had been hoping to lead England to victory in the World Cup but "it wasn't to be".

See pics of Beckham as skipper through the years

After Beckham made his statement Sven-Goran Eriksson said: "He's been a very good captain and very proud to do the job.

"I was a bit surprised when he told me but you have to respect his decision."

New England coach Steve McClaren will decide on who will get the captain's job.