Not really. As far as British footballers go, he's never been the equal of Scholes, Giggs, Gerrard, Lampard, or Rooney.

A lot of people would disagree with you.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Player_of_the_Year

Second twice for World Player of the Year.

The only player out of that list who compares is Scholes; Paul Scholes is the best midfield player of the last 20 years according to Xavi.

Neither Rooney or Gerrard are fit to lace Beckham's boots. Rooney has been a shortlived wonderboy, and Gerrard admittedly has been fantastic for Liverpool, but has had one good game for England in the 5-1 victory over Germany.

Beckham's vanity as a person shouldn't impact the reality that he was an extremely good footballer.

PS. I'm a Villa fan so no Man Utd favouritism.

Hm. I somewhat doubt that.

However, in credit to the man, he did do a great job with the Olympics.

Well, the point is, he's a distinguished, popular, and famous Briton because of his skills in sport. It's not outside the realm of imagination that he might deserve to be on a bill, though that honour is usually mostly reserved for politicians or royalty.