Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard cannot see David Beckham accepting Fabio Capello's retirement call.
Capello appeared to call time on LA Galaxy star Beckham's 115-cap international career before Wednesday evening's friendly victory over Hungary, saying the 35-year-old was "too old" to be considered for selection.
But Gerrard said: "I'm sure that if he hears that news, it'll drive him on and he'll try to prove people wrong and try to get back in the set-up because I know he loves playing for England."
Despite going public with his intention not to select Beckham, Capello admitted he had yet to inform the LA Galaxy midfielder of his decision.
Asked if that was the right way to deliver the news, Gerrard said: "I don't know whether Fabio Capello has spoken to David. I don't know what's happened there.
"But David can hold his head up high for the service he's given to the England team."
Should Beckham fail to add to his caps, Liverpool captain Gerrard has no doubt how he will be remembered.
"Legendary status, without a doubt," he said. "He's put a long shift in as an England player. He's had some fantastic performances, some fantastic goals, memories.
"He was a fantastic captain. I've learnt a lot from David and it's been a pleasure to play alongside him.
"If he has played his last game, he'll certainly be missed because, both on and off the pitch, he's a great guy."
