David Beckham's hopes of playing in a fourth World Cup disappeared completely when star midfielder suffered injury to his left Achilles' tendon while playing for AC Milan. On loan by the Galaxy soccer team, Beckman had high hopes of realizing a long held dream in his fourth World Cup showing.

Veteran footballer Beckham turns 35 years-old on May 2 leaving his time on the field somewhat number as the latest set back takes him complete out of the Cup altogether. Beckman is said to be devastated by the injury and subsequent end to his play in the World Cup. Reports suggest that Beckman will not be fit enough for return in time for the up and coming June 11-July 11 tournament in South Africa.

This set back looks to see the midfielder out of commission for the duration of the football season. A tearful Beckman had some consolation in 1-0 Serie A victory over Chievo in Milan. For three years in the lead up to the World Cup and thought his chances of joining England’s squad were well in his sights.

However, his hopes were ended just three month prior to the start of the tournament. The appointment onto the English squad would have placed Beckman into the history books as the first English player to appear in four World Cups ever.

Instead, his fourth appearance with Milan has come with a bitter sweet ending. "As far as the World Cup is concerned, he's definitely out," Jean Pierre Meersseman, Milan's team doctor, told the Times of London.  According to Milan officials, such an injury can sideline a football player for up to five to eight months.

Speculation over whether this injury will ultimately end the tremendous career and legacy of David Beckman is a hot topic. The future of Beckman literally rests upon his shoulders. Unfortunately, with yet another World Cup showing come to an unsatisfactory outcome for Beckman time is running out.

Beckman left the San Siro stadium on crutches on route Turku, Finland where he is to undergo surgery on Monday. Could this also mean the ending of his international career?