Former England manager Steve McClaren has said that David Beckham was "a great player".

The 37-year-old former Manchester United and England midfielder announced earlier that he will retire from professional football after a 20-year playing career.

McClaren, who worked with Beckham as England manager and also while assistant manager at Manchester United, has praised Beckham's influence on those around him.

"I've been very fortunate to work with some great players and he was one of them," McClaren told Sky Sports News.

"He was a great player, he made the very most of his talents and that was through sheer hard work, professionalism, always doing extra on the training field.

"He inspired his team mates through his performances, he was a winner. He was a leader, people followed him."

Beckham won 115 caps for England between 1996 and 2009.