What the England team needed was leadership on the field. As far as I was concerned, it was missing.

While Beckham wears the armband, it seems there is too much tinsel surrounding him. Early in the game he lost possession, allowing Spain to set up a dangerous attack, but as he lay on the floor he clutched his ribs - if this was a genuine injury he should have gone straight off.

For the time he was on the pitch I can't remember anything constructive but plenty of gestures and camera moments.

And when he did eventually come off, unlike the other substituted players, he sat on bench aware of the camera and again making sure he held his side and grimacing at the same time.

Even my old friend John Motson seems to be trapped in the headlights of Beckham Ltd.

While the captain was applauding everyone on his exit, John pointed out that the Beckham family were watching the game from his private box, where no doubt David might join them to watch the rest of the game.

Yet seconds earlier he had questioned why Wayne Rooney hadn't yet reappeared on the bench.

Beckham has told us he intends to carry on to emulate the two Bobbys - Charlton and Moore - in gaining over 100 caps. This was his 77th but I would like someone to point out the last time he had a really outstanding game.

I don't mean when he scored a spectacular goal or made one or two incisive passes, but a good solid 90 minutes for the team and his country.