Beckham Proud of Olympic role

Despite not having been picked as part of the Team GB, David Beckham says he is proud of the role he is given at the London 2012 Olympics. Beckham eventually returned the Olympic torch that he kicked off its race to the Olympic grounds several weeks ago.

“The excitement building throughout the city is incredible,” he said. To have an Olympic Games in London is amazing but to have it in an area where I grew up, I’m very proud to have been part of that for the last eight years.”

At City Hall, Beckham said: “Over seven years ago, when Seb asked me to get involved with the team that was going to try to bring the Games to a part of London where I grew up I was very proud of that”. He added: “Today is going to be an amazing moment.”

The L.A Galaxy midfielder added “I think we are all ready now” ahead of the official opening ceremony of the games.

Beckham who said he would be elated to play for the Team GB at the games was dropped by Manager Stuart Pearce. Pearce preferred picking Manchester duo of Ryan Giggs and Micah Richards of Manchester United and Manchester City respectively with Craig Bellamy making the trio of allowed over aged players.

“I made it very clear that I’m very disappointed and people around me like my family and friends know how hard it was not being involved,” he explained.

“But I’ve always been a fan of the Olympics and I always said before it was announced that if I wasn’t in the team that I would be here as a fan, I would be here to watch the rest of the athletes perform and that’s where I’ll be.”

Pearce’s decision might proof costly as hopes of the Team GB football team making it beyond their group is uncertain following a 1-1 draw with Senegal on Thursday. Beckham however remains optimistic of his side’s chances just like every fan as he pledged he would be.

“I haven’t spoken to anyone [after the game on Thursday],” said Beckham. It’s just one of those things where they have got a big game on Sunday and I’m sure the players will be ready but there are quite a few things happening before that.”

Beckham will get back to his club LA Galaxy as the games progress: “Our season continues throughout the Games and the summer. I go back next week and then come back just before the closing ceremony. Hopefully, I am going to be able to get to as many events as possible.”