MADRID -- David Beckham, dropped from the England squad by new manager Steve McClaren, said on Friday his passion to play for England remained as strong as ever.

In a statement through his agent Simon Oliveira, Beckham said: "Having spoken to Steve McClaren this week I can fully understand that a new manager should want to make his mark on the team and build towards the next World Cup.

Beckham said he was proud to have played for England for 10 years and his passion for representing his country remained as strong as ever.