Former England coach Steve McClaren has paid tribute to former Manchester United and Real Madrid star David Beckham.

Beckham announced his retirement last week.

McClaren dropped Beckham as England manager, but said: "David forced himself back into the reckoning by his application and determination. I have no regrets about the decision I made about leaving him out but I was glad to be able to bring him back.

"'I just felt that with David making a commitment to play in America for LA Galaxy it would be difficult for him to continue in the team, although I always left the door open for his return. There were younger players coming through and I regarded it as an opportunity to make a statement regarding the old guard and bring on the new ones."