Could England's Chances Be Affected By Injured Beckham?

David Beckham's injury may impact on England's odds of success.

Could David Beckham's Achilles injury make England a better bet this summer?



With the one-time England captain seemingly out of this summer's World Cup tournament in South Africa, bookmakers may seek to offer more attractive odds on England winning the tournament.



Beckham's injury will certainly curtail a range of novelty bets offered by certain bookmakers, with the former Manchester United player's hair often the subject of scrutiny at major tournaments in the past.



The midfielder, whose attempts to close on Peter Shilton's record of 125 caps for England are seemingly in tatters, may join the party as a non-playing member.



Bookmakers will need to assess whether Beckham's experience and motivational qualities can still have an impact despite it being highly unlikely that he will add to his own 115 international appearances.



Beckham was only ever likely to be a bit part player in England's quest to lift the trophy in South Africa this summer, as he was increasingly seen as a substitute by England boss Fabio Capello.