The news of a David Beckham injury has spread across Europe like wildfire, and there is a real level of shock in the England camp. The injury to David Beckham will almost certainly rule him out of the World Cup Finals in South Africa in 2010, which will not only be a blow for the England team, but also to the man who was planning his England farewell on the pitch in Africa.

David Beckham injury

David Beckham Injury

The 34-year-old AC Milan midfielder picked up the injury in a game against Chievo in front of his home fans at the San Siro stadium in Milan. Nobody seemed to interfere with him, and there was no dangerous tackle. He merely pulled up while trying to make a pass, and within two minutes he was in tears as the Milan medical staff attempted to work on it.

As soon as he felt the injury to his ankle, Beckham made a gesture towards the trainers and physios on his bench, while mouthing the words ‘It’s broken. It’s broken’. The heartbreak and agony on his face was clear for all to see – and it is a testament to what the World Cup meant to him that thoughts in his mind immediately seemed to turn to his future.

Leonardo, the Milan coach, expressed his sorrow for Beckham: “When I think of his personal history, everything I know about him, how hard he works, I just feel so bad for him. Tonight was a very important win for us, but David’s injury definitely puts a downer on the evening.”

David Beckham will now fly to Finland for treatment on his ankle, by Dr Sakari Orava, one of the world’s foremost specialists in Achilles tendon surgery. It is thought that Beckham may be ruled out for up to 8 months – which could also theoretically end his career.

Will he make a quick return, or is this the end for one of England’s most famous footballing talents?Let us know what you think about the Beckham injury.