England captain David Beckham said on Tuesday he was relishing the possibility of a summer break from football for the first time in five years.
Beckham, who will lead England against South Africa in Durban on Thursday, said he would take a long break with his family after Manchester United's championship-winning season.
"I had always agreed with the England manager that I would play in the game against South Africa, but we have agreed after that I go on holiday," he said.
"It's definitely important me for me to get a rest. It was a long and tough season. We had some ups and downs but I enjoyed winning the championship.
"The rest will do a lot for me personally and hopefully I'll go back for the new season with a lot less pressure.
"I do feel tired after a long season. It was up and down for the whole team and the effort you put in really takes it out of you."
Beckham said he was hoping for a full run against South Africa after coach Sven-Goran Eriksson confirmed he would start with his strongest line-up in the friendly international.
"It would be nice to play more than 45 minutes. I wanted to come here as England captain as it is obviously an important trip."