Beckham World Cup dream in tatters (From Swindon Advertiser)

Beckham World Cup dream in tatters

6:40am Monday 15th March 2010 in National News © Press Association 2011

David Beckham has arrived in Finland for expected surgery on a ruptured Achilles tendon - an injury that all but rules him out of the World Cup.

The specialist tasked with conducting the operation said he is optimistic the footballer will return to fitness.

Meanwhile a spokesman for Beckham said the star midfielder is hopeful of a "swift and full" recovery.

But England manager Fabio Capello indicated the former captain will not be fit in time for the World Cup as a result of the latest injury.

Confirming the fears of many England fans, Capello said the torn tendon is likely to mean that Beckham will miss the showpiece event in South Africa this summer.

He told the Press Association: "We have to wait for the results of the scan, but it looks like he is out of the World Cup."

The England manager spoke to Beckham after he sustained the injury during a match in Milan to offer his support.

"David is a great professional and has worked very hard to be ready for the World Cup, so missing it will be a big blow," Capello added.

A statement posted on Beckham's website on Monday afternoon confirmed that Beckham would be undergoing treatment in Finland. It added: "He is understandably upset but wants to thank everyone for their messages of support. He hopes to make a swift and full recovery."

Beckham will be examined by Finnish surgeon Sakari Orava at his Turku Clinic. Dr Orava told Sky Sports News that he believes the footballer can return to full fitness despite his age.