South Africa's FIFA 2010 World Cup Local Organizing Committee (LOC) are disappointed that England football icon David Beckham has been ruled out of playing in the tournament which starts in Johannesburg on June 11.

However, although Beckham's Achilles' tendon injury will prevent him from playing, South African media are optimistic that he will still come to the tournament.

Beckham is an ambassador for England's bid for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In that capacity he may be used during the month-long competition.

Beckham was a star attraction at the FIFA World Cup draw held in Cape Town in December 2009.

The Times newspaper in Johannesburg reported Tuesday that Beckham's wife Victoria and their three sons are expected in South Africa during the World Cup to visit charities linked to her Save the Children campaign. The family were reported in The Times to have rented a luxury flat in Camp's Bay, Cape Town.

LOC spokesman Rich Mkhondo said Monday Beckham is a "household name" in South Africa, and South Africans wanted to see Beckham at the World Cup in South Africa.

Beckham underwent surgery in Finland on Monday after which the doctor said there was "no chance" he would be ready to play in the World Cup.