David Beckham - understands decisionDavid Beckham reacted to being left out of Steve McClaren's first England squad by saying he understood the new manager would "want to make his mark on the team".
Beckham, who has 94 England caps, is not considering announcing his international retirement however and will continue to make himself available for selection.
Beckham said in a statement: "Having spoken to Steve McClaren this week I can fully understand that a new manager should want to make his mark on the team and build towards the next World Cup.
"I'm proud have played for England for 10 years and my passion for representing my country remains as strong as ever.
"I'd like to wish the best of luck to John Terry and will offer him my complete support in the future."
Sources close to the 31-year-old Real Madrid midfielder say he was "extremely disappointed" when told by McClaren of his decision but was determined to do everything in his power to prove that he was worthy of an England place.
However, McClaren was bluntly honest in admitting he wants to take the squad in a new direction.
He said: "I spoke with David last Monday and notified him of my decision and said I was planning for the future, to change things and go in a different direction, and that David wasn't included in that.
"I have great respect for David, he was a fantastic captain, a great player and still is. He took the news well. He was disappointed but I got the reaction I wanted. That was for him to continue to fight for a place.
"I will never close the door. That was the end of the conversation."
McClaren then spelled out how he sees the England team progressing under his command.
"At this present moment I am looking to take this team in a different direction. That is why I decided not to pick David Beckham.
"I want to make this team successful, to qualify for a tournament and to do well. I want to produce an England team that wins matches and plays in a certain style.
"I want to build a team the fans can be proud of. They deserve a winning team."
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