London, June 5: England footballer David Beckham had phoned three senior players of the national team to inquire if they had any objection over him joining manager Fabio Capello’s staff in South Africa for the World Cup.

According to reports, Beckham, who has been ruled out of the World Cup with an Achilles injury, was concerned that some players might see his presence as a distraction due to the publicity that he attracts.

He was also worried that he might be viewed as a threat to the authority of captain Rio Ferdinand.

All the players he consulted, including Ferdinand, assured him that they would value his presence at England’s Royal Marang Hotel headquarters near Rustenburg, The Mirror reports.

Capello had earlier suggested that Beckham could be catapulted into his coaching team in South Africa, as he believes the midfielder could be of great help behind the scenes.

“He’s very important. He will stay with us, helping in some moments. He’ll train also, alone, when he comes, but he’s important because he’s one of the symbols of England,” Capello had said.

“He’s part of my team but he’s not a coach. He’s the liaison between the staff and players,” he added. (ANI)