David Beckham has defended French captain Thierry Henry following his controversial handball in the World Cup play-off against the Republic of Ireland at Stade de France on Wednesday.

"I honestly didn't think Thierry meant it. I know him as a player and a person," said the England

midfielder. "He's a good person and a great player. It's a shame to see Ireland go out because they have such great fans but these things happen in football.

"I really don't think he meant it. I've had a few headlines in the past which have not been nice but I don't think he is a cheat."

Asked whether he would have done the same thing in a similar situation, Beckham added: "Who knows in that situation?

"You're playing in a qualifier to go through to the World Cup, you don't know what you're doing.

"I've been involved in big games and reacted to certain things and looked back and thought I was wrong to do that."