Fabio Capello believes David Beckham can have a key role to play during the World Cup.

Beckham's hopes of playing in the finals were shattered by injury and Capello has insisted the midfielder is not part of his official coaching staff in South Africa but the Italian still feels the former Manchester United star can make a worthwhile contribution.

He was on the training pitch with Capello, his staff and the players at their base at Bafokeng Sports Centre and Capello said: "Beckham is with us. He is not a coach but it is important because he is one of the symbols of England."