David Beckham aims for 'swift and full recovery' from achilles injury

The England midfielder David Beckham "hopes to make a swift and full recovery" from the ruptured achilles tendon he suffered while playing for Milan against Chievo yesterday, a statement on the player's website said. Beckham underwent surgery on his achilles in Finland earlier today, and his surgeon confirmed that the operation was a success. "So far everything is fine," Dr. Sakari Orava told Reuters. "The operation went smoothly and nicely." Orava was asked whether the England midfielder would be able to play in this year's World Cup. "No, I don't think so....healing takes a long time," he said. Beckham's foot will be in a cast for around six-eight weeks, after which he can start "more vigorous" physiotherapy. Beckham's earlier statement, released on www.davidbeckham.com , thanked fans for the messages of support he had received. "He is understandably upset but wants to thank everyone for their messages of support. He hopes to make a swift and full recovery." • Beckham to miss World Cup after achilles injury • Rob Smyth: Beckham's injured. So what? • Four months to return from injury, says surgeon • Galliani says Beckham will be welcome back at Milan • Glittering career set for unhappy ending The injury will rule the 34-year-old, who is on loan to Milan from the Los Angeles Galaxy, out of this summer's World Cup in South Africa. A statement from the England manager, Fabio Capello, released earlier today, said: "It looks like he is out of the World Cup. I spoke with him after the game on Sunday night to offer my support, as did [Capello's assistant] Franco Baldini. "David is a great professional and has worked very hard to be ready for the World Cup, so missing it will be a big blow. I am very sad for David that he has suffered this injury."