Fabio Capello “clearly underestimated” the controversy his words would create again. He must learn. He’s dealing with five-year-olds. The same luminaries who frothed with feigned outrage about the “Capello Index” are sharpening their styli again. This time about his “callow disregard” for David Beckham’s feelings.

First, the facts. David Beckham is 35 now, which means he would be 37 at Euro 2012. He’s recovering from a serious achilles injury. He’s playing in MLS not at top-level. He would struggle to make an England squad for that tournament on merit.

Capello did not “announce” anything. ITV asked him about Beckham during an interview. He answered the question sensibly. He would “probably” not call Beckham up for a competitive match because he was “a bit too old.” He would be willing to give Beckham a “thank you” call up for a farewell friendly at Wembley. He did not say anything inflammatory. He cast doubt but did not explicitly end Beckham’s career. He said what was obvious.  He told the truth.

His crime was not realizing his benign words would create a controversy. He did not let Beckham know in advance. From Henry Winter:

Of course, Capello was right to call time. Beckham’s effectiveness was a thing of the past, the international world is no country for old men, and youngsters like Theo Walcott and the versatile Adam Johnson deserve their chance. But Capello’s callow disregard for Beckham’s feelings, and the respect the English public feel for such a patriotic soul, is pretty unforgivable.

Rape, murder and maiming are unforgivable. Perhaps, that’s a bit strong for Capello’s malfeasance. He could not have known ITV was going to ask that question in advance. So, the English media is ourtaged because Capello did not realize they would be irrationally outraged and warn Beckham about it. There is a communications gap. Apparently, Capello is used to dealing with rational adults.

Beckham wasn’t a victim. He brought this on himself. International playing careers end two ways. A player retires or he isn’t called up. Beckham had his chance to fight his way back into the England squad for South Africa. He held his team and his league hostage to do so. He got hurt. He should have retired. Continuing the saga is not about England or about being “a patriotic soul.” It’s about keeping the Beckham brand relevant. Beckham is the senile grandfather clinging to the steering wheel. Because of his intransigence, removing him from the national setup was bound to be painful.

[Becks via Getty]