David Beckham's agent held talks with the FA and people at 10 Downing Street after the global superstar was omitted from Team GB's 2012 Olympic squad, claims Stuart Pearce.
The former England defender led Great Britain's football team at their home Olympics.
But Pearce decided not to pick Beckham in his squad, although he had no idea of the saga that would follow.
The former Manchester United star was nearing the end of his playing days at LA Galaxy.
Nevertheless he remained a huge name in the game and his agent, as well as his sponsor Adidas, were not happy with his omission.
There were even talks held about whether Pearce should be replace in his role as manager, reports the Daily Mail.
Team GB were unable to advance past the quarter-finals after defeat at the hands of South Korea.
The squad did include Beckham's fellow Class of 92 graduate Ryan Giggs.
Former Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverly was also picked alongside the likes of Craig Bellamy, Daniel Sturridge and Joe Allen.
Beckham would go on to move to PSG a few months later where he saw out his playing career.
Since then he has set about creating his own MLS team which was entered into the American competition this year.
Inter Miami are in their debut season but lost their opening two games at the hands of LAFC and DC United.
The campaign has since been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic but Beckham was in favour of the decision.
He said: "It's times like these when we are reminded of the things that are truly important in life...In these moments, sports take a back seat.
"We must all listen to expert advice and do the right thing."
* Sign up to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip
