Nelson Mandela used a meeting with the England squad here yesterday to recruit David Beckham to South Africa's quest to stage the 2010 World Cup.

The former president, renowned for a deft touch in signing up visitors to his favourite causes, said he was eager for international backing.

"We support you and hope that you and the British people will support our bid. We make this appeal for the British people to be at the forefront in supporting our bid and I'm sure you will do that."

Later, Mandela told the South African captain Lucas Radebe that he had received a pledge from Beckham, who seemed awestruck at the meeting, held on the eve of today's friendly international in Durban.

"I have a promise from David Beckham that he will support our bid," Mandela added. "That alone gives us a great deal of hope."

After being pipped by Germany for the 2006 World Cup, South Africa is determined to stage the next one, considering it a showcase for its post-apartheid normalisation. The recent cricket World Cup and last year's development summit were hailed in South Africa as proof that the country had come of age.

The England captain, who handed the 84-year-old an England shirt with Mandela inscribed on the back, said it was an honour for the squad - or the 15 who visited - to meet such a great man.

Mandela urged his grandchildren to shake hands with his fellow icon, pointing in encouragement to one who filed past and silently mouthing: "It's David Beckham."

He dodged a question on the footballer's new haircut, which has been hailed by the South African press as a tribute to the continent.

"I'm too old to express an opinion on the latest developments with young people," said Mandela.

Grinning broadly, Beckham later said: "It's great to be here today. It's an amazing honour for all of us. He has such an amazing aura, you feel relaxed and at home as soon as you are in his company."

Rio Ferdinand was also in awe of Mandela, describing the few minutes that the squad spent in his presence as "unbelievable".

"I was so desperate to get my picture taken with him. These experiences come along once in a lifetime."

Mandela, meanwhile, had plenty of advice for the South African players, saying they must "walk tall" during the match.

He added: "When you are playing one of the best teams it can make you walk tall. We have complete confidence you will make a good display.

"Of course, in sports you have good and bad days, we hope this is a good day. We hope the best team will win."