David Beckham has described breakout Colombian football star James Rodriguez as the "whole package" following his performances at the World Cup.

Rodriguez, who turned 23 today, still leads the World Cup scoring charts on six goals, despite going out in the quarter-finals.

Former England captain Beckham described his goal in the last 16 against Uruguay as the best of the tournament when speaking to Adidas Football's YouTube channel.

"His goal for me was one of the best of the tournament - as a young player, to have that thought, the way he moved into the ball, the way he turned and struck the ball," said Beckham.

"I've heard about him quite a few times and people told me he was a great talent, but to come on to the world stage at his age and play the way he's played, says how talented he is.

"I think he's got a great future. He's such a talented player and he's a good-looking kid as well, he's got the whole package."

The playmaker was yesterday named as one of the 10 nominees for the tournament's Golden Ball award for the best player.

Currently at Monaco, Rodriguez has admitted that it is his dream to play for Real Madrid.