Sven too close to Becks - Robson
Sir Bobby Robson says Sven-Goran Eriksson's closeness to David Beckham could alienate the rest of the squad. The Newcastle United boss is wary of the Swede having one rule for the England skipper and another for the rest of his England internationals. Eriksson would do well to take a leaf out of the veteran coach's book. Robson claims he never allowed himself to be too close to his players when he was in charge of England, while his decisions have sometimes angered Magpies skipper Alan Shearer. Robson is quoted by the Newcastle fanzine TyneTalk as saying: "A manager cannot afford to get too close to individuals, no matter how big or famous. Otherwise, you run the risk of riling the others. "I never gave special treatment to players such as Peter Shilton, Gary Lineker or Bryan Robson." Robson also hopes that Eriksson told Beckham that he was at fault for Japan's goal during the 1-1 draw at the City of Manchester Stadium last Tuesday. He added: "Beckham let his player go and get in a telling cross. I hope Sven made that clear because it won't do David any good to be untouchable."