David Beckham voted best football role model

Former England captain David Beckham has been voted football's best role model, edging out Pele and Sir Bobby Charlton.

The Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder, who played an ambassadorial role in London's bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games, has claimed the top honour ahead of the likes of Gary Lineker and George Best.

The 37-year-old, who is widely known for his 'Beckham brand', which includes a new underwear range with H&M, is also a Unicef Goodwill Ambassador and has set up childrens' football academies across the UK and America.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard also made the list in 10th place.

Top 10 football role models: 1. David Beckham 2. Pele 3. Sir Bobby Charlton 4. Gary Lineker 5. George Best 6. Sir Bobby Moore 7. Sir Stanley Matthews 8. Jack Charlton 9. Alan Ball 10. Steven Gerrard