David Beckham believes that Fabio Capello can make the difference to England’s 44-year quest to win the World Cup. England have travelled to the previous two tournaments with high hopes of winning the game’s ultimate trophy, but Beckham is convinced that next summer’s competition in South Africa represents their best chance for decades.

Beckham pinpoints the experience of the squad and cool temperatures expected in an African winter as crucial factors in England’s favour, before identifying the ability of the manager as their biggest asset.

The Los Angeles Galaxy midfield player, who was due to play in the MLS Cup final against Real Salt Lake last night, did not criticise Sven- Göran Eriksson’s leadership in the past two tournaments, not least because he was captain throughout the Swede’s five-year reign, but feels that Capello has taken a similar squad to a different level. [+]