Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has defended Stuart Pearce's decision to leave David Beckham out of the Team GB side at the Olympics.

Beckham, 37, had hoped to be included in the squad having played a major role in bringing the Games to London, but Pearce instead opted to choose Ryan Giggs, Craig Bellamy and Micah Richards as his three allotted over-23 players.

Pearce's decisions have divided opinion, with some applauding his choice to select the strongest possible team while others, such as Robbie Savage, have described Beckham's omission as a "disgrace". However, Redknapp has hailed Pearce's bravery in making the decision.

"There is no doubt Stuart will have upset a few in high places. They would have loved to see Becks in there. I am surprised and sad that he isn't," Redknapp told The Sun.

"Stuart can kiss goodbye to a knighthood but credit for being brave. He is the manager and should be allowed to pick who he wants."

Beckham is expected to be offered a non-playing role in the Olympic set-up by chairman Lord Sebastian Coe.