David Beckham is being considered as a future chairman of the English FA in the aftermath of his country's failed attempt to win the right to host the 2018 World Cup.
According to a report in the News of the World on Sunday, the FA are desperate to use Beckham to restore their reputation after losing out to Russia in Thursday's FIFA vote to pick the World Cup hosts.
The FA are aware that Germany, who hosted the 2006 World Cup, benefited from having German legend Franz Beckenbauer promoting their claims, while Michel Platini, now UEFA president, has helped France improve their worldwide profile.
It is claimed the FA believe former Manchester United, Real Madrid and England midfielder Beckham has the perfect combination of charm and global recognition to bring respect back to the English game's governing body.
The News of the World says Beckham would initially work as a roving ambassador for the FA before eventually taking over the chairmanship once he has the experience of world football's politics.