David Beckham spoke of his pride at being awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for services to football. The England captain, whose future at Manchester United continues to dominate the sporting agenda, paid tribute to his fellow players at club and international level. Beckham said: "I am honoured and privileged to received this recognition. "It's not just for me but for Manchester United, England, all of my team-mates and my family." It is highly unusual for a footballer to receive an honour without it being linked to a specific occasion such as international retirement or excellence in a particular competition. However, a Downing Street spokesman said the award was recognition for Beckham's ambassadorial role off the field as much as his skills on the pitch. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: "As captain of the England team, David Beckham has performed with great distinction and has been a great ambassador for the country on and off the field and that is the reason why he receives his award." In the last few weeks, Beckham has played a prominent public relations role for the Football Association, including such duties as meeting Nelson Mandela and a television appeal to England fans calling for good behaviour.
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