The only reason why David Beckham is moving to AC Milan in January is the World Cup in South Africa next year - admits the former Man Utd star.
The England midfielder wants to keep his chances of playing at the World Cup alive.
"I'm honoured that Milan have given me the chance to go back, but the hope of playing for England is the only reason I'm doing it," Beckham told The Times.
England coach Fabio Capello told the Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder that he has to be playing in Europe if he wants to be part of the squad that attends the World Cup in June.
"I'm dedicated to going to South Africa and wouldn't leave my family for six months if I wasn't," he said. "It's not something I'm looking forward to. I don't want to be away from my wife and children for that length of time, but it's probably the last time I'll do it."
Beckham will join Milan in the January transfer window. The 34-year-old arrived at the Serie A club on a similar deal earlier this year, playing out the second half of the season at the San Siro before returning to the United States.
