The LA Galaxy star and former England captain was widely tipped to be included in the final 18-man group, but has revealed that he will not feature this summer

LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham has been left out of the Team GB Olympic football squad.

The former England captain had been included on coach Stuart Pearce's 35-man shortlist, and was expected to be named in the final list of 18 as one of three over-age players.

Its has learned, meanwhile, that Manchester City defender Micah Richards has made the squad despite opting to reject a place on England's five-man standby list for Euro 2012.

Richards returned to the national team set-up in February for a friendly against the Netherlands, but found himself sidelined once more after Roy Hodgson took over as coach.

Craig Bellamy had already confirmed his place in Pearce's plans and fellow Welshman Ryan Giggs is also reportedly set to be involved.

"Everyone knows how much playing for my country has always meant to me," Beckham said in a statement. "So I would have been honoured to have been part of this unique Team GB squad. 

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"Naturally I am very disappointed, but there will be no bigger supporter of the team than me. And, like everyone, I will be hoping they can win the gold."

Beckham, who captained England for nearly six years between 2000 and 2006, had hoped to make a comeback on the international stage. He is the Three Lions' most-capped outfield player with 115 national team appearances to his name.

Now 37, the former Manchester United star last turned out for his country in 2009.