David Beckham quit on Sunday as England captain after almost six years in the job in the wake of their World Cup quarter-final defeat by Portugal.

England's David Beckham makes a statement to the media at the World Cup soccer training camp near Baden-Baden, July 2, 2006. Beckham quit on Sunday as England captain after almost six years in the job in the wake of their World Cup quarter-final defeat by Portugal. [Reuters]

The England midfielder, apparently on the verge of tears, told a news conference: "I feel the time is right to pass on the armband as we enter a new era under (new coach) Steve McClaren."

Beckham said he would continue playing for England.