Beckham: Wembley not like home

2008-08-22 18:01

London - David Beckham admits England need to turn Wembley into a fortress if they are to qualify for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

England have found it hard to shine at the rebuilt national stadium since it was opened in 2007 and produced another limp display in Wednesday's 2-2 friendly draw against the Czech Republic.

With defeats to Germany and Croatia last season as well, Beckham fears England's confidence is draining away when they play in front of their own fans.

"We haven't made Wembley our home yet, that's the biggest thing," Beckham said. "It feels like when we're going out there it's tough.

"Every game is tough these days, but we need to make it daunting for players and teams coming to Wembley.

"We will get there, we will build on that, but it's about getting the confidence up, which will happen in the qualifiers."

Beckham is convinced England coach Fabio Capello will eventually get the team playing to their potential despite the Italian's underwhelming first five matches.

"The manager thrives on challenges, he wants the best out of the team, and he'll get that," Beckham said. "People expect change straight away and it just doesn't happen like that.

"It is step by step, it's about bonding together as a team, as a unit, and that takes time."

- AFP