David Beckham was "really happy" today after a successful operation on his torn Achilles but will not play again for at least six months, said the surgeon who treated him.
The England midfielder is in a clinic in Turk, Finland, recovering from the operation on the injury, which ended his hopes of featuring at this summer's World Cup finals.
"His mood was pretty good," said Dr Sakari Orava. "He was smiling and there was no pain. He was really happy. He's a nice patient, he's very satisfied with everything and doesn't complain."
Beckham was due to start walking on crutches today and could be discharged tomorrow but Dr Orava dismissed suggestions of a rapid return to football for the player who was hurt in action for AC Milan on Sunday.
"These walking exercises are the first day's programme after surgery," said Orava. "After that he will get a detailed programme for further rehabilitation."
The doctor added that it would be "four months until he starts running" and another two before the former England captain was likely to be back playing.
Although Beckham will not be on the pitch at the World Cup, there is still the possibility he could be in South Africa to boost England's chances of winning the right to host the 2018 tournament.
Beckham already has an ambassadorial role with the bid and at the 2010 finals draw in December he said he would do everything in his power to bring the competition back to these shores. Andy Anson, chief executive of 2018 bid, said: "At the moment our sole thought is to wish him a speedy recovery and to wish him well."
Gordon Brown has also given his support to Beckham. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: "He has indeed sent him a message and wishes him well as the whole nation does."
