David Beckham Zone

Siesta Time!

2009-04-27T20:21:00.000Z

Well I think this may be the end. My heart has gone out of the blogs and I'm not sure if I'm gonna continue with them or not. Why? Well Freddie is at Seattle Sounders who I just can't get into - just don't like the colour of their kit for a start. Smudge is always on the bench at Newcastle and there's just no news. Only Beckham is peaking my interest at the moment with him being at Milan so I may keep this one updated.

It's also a time thing and these days I feel like I am doing it just for the sake of it. The blogs are just getting stale without constant updating and as a result the number of visitors is falling and the comments and feedback have almost dried up.

So I'm taking a break. I'll just follow the guys myself. The blogs will stay up for a while if people still want to look around them until I decide what I'm gonna do.

Take care

Paul

New Motorola Aura

2009-04-17T17:50:00.002Z

David Beckham appears Terminator like in a new advert for the Motorola Aura mobile phone. Cool!

Making of....

Match Report: England 2 - 1 Ukraine

2009-04-02T19:25:00.004Z

England 2 - 1 Ukraine
World Cup 2010 Group 6 Qualification

England: James, Johnson , Ferdinand (Jagielka 88), Terry, Cole, Lennon (Beckham 57), Lampard, Barry , Gerrard, Rooney, Crouch (Wright-Phillips 79).
Subs Not Used: Foster, Lescott, Carrick, Agbonlahor.

Booked: Barry, Johnson, Beckham.
Goals: Crouch 29, Terry 85.

Ukraine: Pyatov, Yarmash, Mykhalyk , Chigrinsky, Shevchuk, Aliev, Slyusar (Kalinichenko 88), Tymoschuk, Valyaev (Nazarenko 61), Voronin (Shevchenko 55), Milevskiy.
Subs Not Used: Bogush, Kucher, Rusol, Seleznyov.

Booked: Mykhalyk.
Goals: Shevchenko 74.

Attendance: 87,548

Referee: Claus Bo Larsen (DEN)

Match Stats
	England	Ukraine
Shots (on Goal)	11 (4)	7 (4)
Fouls	12	16
Corner Kicks	5	0
Offsides	2	1
Time of Possession	59%	41%
Yellow Cards	3	1
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	3	3

Beckham reaches new caps landmark

2009-03-29T14:46:00.004Z

David Beckham became England's most capped outfield player when he made his 109th international appearance in Saturday's friendly against Slovakia.

He came on as a half-time substitute at Wembley to surpass the previous record of 108 caps he shared with Bobby Moore.

Beckham, who became England's second-most capped player in the process, marked his achievement by setting up Wayne Rooney for England's second goal.

Only goalkeeper Peter Shilton, with 125, has made more England appearances.

"Obviously it is a very special occasion for myself, to reach this amount of caps and to be up there just above Bobby Moore," Beckham, who replaced Aaron Lennon, told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I am very proud of that, but the most important thing was the way we played and the performance we put in.

"Overall, it's a good night for myself but a better night for the team."

England warmed up for their World Cup qualifer with Ukraine on Wednesday by beating Slovakia 4-0 thanks to goals from Emile Heskey, Rooney (2) and Frank Lampard.

After Heskey had put the home side in front after just seven minutes, Rooney headed a second from Beckham's cross on 70 minutes.

"It's what I've done throughout my career," said Beckham, reflecting on his part in the goal. "If I get a chance, there's players like Wayne Rooney, Emile Heskey or Peter Crouch on the end of it. If I can assist in that way, then great."

Rooney hailed Beckham's impact and praised his record-breaking feat.

"David has set me up for a few goals, so I have to thank him for that," said the Manchester United striker.

"It is a great achievement. All of the players are really pleased for him. You could see how much he is loved by everybody, the players and the fans."

England captain John Terry added his praise for Beckham, saying: "He comes on and always makes the difference - that is the quality he brings to the squad.

"David has determination and fight, and can go on forever. He has given the manager food for thought, that is for sure."

Beckham admitted he would prefer to be in Fabio Capello's team from the start but said he could still play a key role off the bench.

"Substitutes can be very important in the game. We saw that in 1999 with Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer," he said, harking back to Manchester United's spectacular win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League final.

"Everybody wants to start for England. If I start, then I start, if I don't, then I'm part of a good team going forward.

"The target is just to play, be involved in every game possible. I have already said I'd love to play in another World Cup - or two - but we will have to wait and see. That is a long way away at the moment."

Beckham joined Serie A giants AC Milan on an extended loan from American outfit Los Angeles Galaxy in a bid to prolong his international career and improve his chances of making England's squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, will return to Major League Soccer in June for the second half of the season before rejoining Milan in November.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: England 4 - 0 Slovakia

2009-03-29T14:07:00.002Z

England 4 - 0 Slovakia
International Friendly

England: James (Foster 46), Johnson, Upson, Terry, Ashley Cole, Lennon (Beckham 46), Lampard, Barry, Gerrard (Downing 46), Heskey (Carlton Cole 15), Rooney, Carlton Cole (Crouch 34), Crouch (Carrick 74).
Subs Not Used: Green, Jagielka, Lescott, Baines.

Goals: Heskey 7, Rooney 70, Lampard 82, Rooney 90.

Slovakia: Senecky, Pekarik, Valachovic, Skrtel, Cech (Jendrisek 46), Sestak (Jakubko 72), Zabavnik, Karhan (Strba 83), Kozak (Sapara 62), Hamsik (Mintal 79), Vittek (Holosko 46).
Subs Not Used: Mucha, Cisovsky, Kratochvil, Dobrotka, Obzera, Kamenar.

Booked: Sapara.

Attendance: 85,512

Referee: Alain Hamer (LUX).

Match Stats
	England	Slovakia
Shots (on Goal)	18(9)	6(3)
Fouls	5	13
Corner Kicks	10	5
Offsides	6	0
Time of Possession	55%	45%
Yellow Cards	0	1
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	3	5

Becks: 'I'll Act As Crazy Rooney's Minder'

2009-03-27T09:51:00.001Z

David Beckham says he is ready to act as Wayne Rooney's minder to keep the fiery England striker out of trouble.

England coach Fabio Capello called Rooney a "crazy man" after the Manchester United star's petulant red card in their defeat against Fulham at the weekend.

Capello's joke hinted at concern that a lack of discipline could damage England's hopes of a successful World Cup campaign in South Africa next year.

Rooney has often struggled to control his temper with England and was sent off for stamping on Ricardo Carvalho in the 2006 quarter-final defeat against Portugal.

But Beckham knows from personal experience how the red mist can descend following his costly red card for kicking Diego Simeone in the 2002 World Cup defeat to Argentina.

He believes it is impossible to completely tame Rooney - and says his temper is part of his brilliance.

But he is keen to keep an eye on his England team-mate so he can avoid on-pitch explosions that could lead to more sendings off.

"If you take that side of him out of his game he becomes a different player and a different animal," Beckham said.

"There's no way you want to take that out of him. He knows it's not right.

"It's happened a few times with myself... as an experienced player you tend to notice those things more when you are a bit older.

"You see players' reactions and see what can happen next.

"I've seen it with some of the best players in the world. Look at (Zinedine) Zidane, you could see it in his eyes sometimes in games.

"You know what's going to happen. It's all about the passion, which is the biggest thing."

He added: "You can try to get to him in time as a team-mate, but some things are uncontrollable."

England are playing Slovakia in a friendly at Wembley on Saturday.

And Beckham will earn his 109th cap if he plays - making him the country's most-capped outfield player.

Source: Sky Sports

Beckham plays down England record

2009-03-27T09:35:00.002Z

David Beckham says he is more interested in getting England to the 2010 World Cup than breaking Bobby Moore's appearance record.

Former captain Beckham will become England's most capped outfield player by winning his 109th cap if he plays in Saturday's friendly against Slovakia.

But the 33-year-old said: "It would be special but I would rather get the team to the World Cup than anything else.

"When I was on 94 caps I never expected to make 100."

With Arsenal winger Theo Walcott ruled out through injury and Manchester City's Shaun Wright-Phillips struggling with an ankle problem, Beckham stands a good chance of figuring in coach Fabio Capello's plans for the friendly at Wembley as England prepare for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier with Ukraine.

Should he be chosen in the first XI it would be the 100th start of his England career, but it is a position he refuses to take for granted as just over two years ago his international career seemed over.

He added: "I didn't believe I would play for England once I was taken out of the team.

"When I was left out of the squad by [former coach] Steve McClaren I just allowed myself to be proud of the number of caps I had.

"As a young boy all I dreamed of was playing at Wembley and playing for my country, even if it was just the once.

"It was only when I got to 50 that I thought about reaching 100. But I definitely felt I would end up on 94."

Beckham's career has been revitalised by a loan move from Los Angeles Galaxy to AC Milan and it appears to have secured his short-term future in the squad.

If he stays fit throughout their World Cup qualification campaign - and the tournament itself should they qualify - he is in line to break Peter Shilton's all-time England record of 125 caps.

That landmark, though, is not something he is considering at the moment.

"Once we've qualified I need to stay fit and get in the squad," he said. "If that happens we will wait and see where I am on the caps front.

"If I break Shilton's record then great. If not we will have to see what the future holds."

Source: BBCi

Match Report: Napoli 0 - 0 AC Milan

2009-03-27T09:18:00.004Z

Napoli 0 - 0 AC Milan
Serie A TIM

Napoli: Navarro, Cannavaro, Contini, Santacroce, Blasi , Pazienza, Hamsik, Mannini, Grava, Lavezzi, Zalayeta (Bogliacino 90)
Subs not used: Pia, Denis, Bucci, Datolo, Russotto, Montervino

Booked:Blasi

AC Milan:Dida, Favalli (Senderos 72), Maldini, Pirlo, Jankulovski, Zambrotta, Seedorf (Kaka 57), Flamini, Beckham, Pato, Inzaghi (Ronaldinho 63)
Subs not used: Kalac, Anotonini, Shevchenko, Darmian

Attendance: 60,000

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Match Stats
	Napoli	AC Milan
Shots (on Goal)	13(4)	6(3)
Fouls	15	13
Corner Kicks	4	6
Offsides	4	3
Time of Possession	34%	66%
Yellow Cards	1	0
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	3	4

England Squad

2009-03-23T18:55:00.001Z

Fabio Capello has picked the England squad for the international friendly against Slovakia at Wembley on 28 March 2009.

Goalkeepers: David James (Portsmouth), Robert Green (West Ham United), Ben Foster (Manchester United)

Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Everton), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), John Terry (Chelsea), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Glen Johnson (Portsmouth), Matthew Upson (West Ham United), Ledley King (Tottenham Hotspur).

Midfielders: Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), David Beckham (AC Milan), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham Hotspur), Steven Gerrad (Liverpool).

Forwards: Carlton Cole (West Ham United), Peter Crouch (Portsmouth), Emile Heskey (Aston Villa), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United).

Serie A Table

2009-03-17T01:02:00.001Z

POS	TEAM	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Internazionale Milan	28	20	2	6	30	66
2	Juventus	28	18	5	5	25	59
3	AC Milan	28	16	6	6	23	54
4	Genoa	28	13	6	9	10	48
5	Fiorentina	28	14	10	4	9	46
6	AS Roma	28	13	8	7	6	46
7	Palermo	28	13	12	3	2	42
8	Lazio	28	12	11	5	-1	41
9	Cagliari	28	11	11	6	4	39
10	Atalanta	28	12	13	3	2	39
11	Napoli	28	10	12	6	0	36
12	Udinese	28	9	10	9	-1	36
13	Catania	28	9	12	7	-5	34
14	Sampdoria	28	8	11	9	-7	33
15	Siena	28	8	13	7	-8	31
16	Chievo Verona	28	6	13	9	-12	27
17	Bologna	28	6	14	8	-15	26
18	Torino	28	5	14	9	-17	24
19	Lecce	28	4	13	11	-22	23
20	Reggina	28	3	14	11	-23	20
Table standings correct as of 17 March 2009

Match Report: Siena 1 - 5 AC Milan

2009-03-17T00:34:00.006Z

Siena 1 - 5 AC Milan
Serie A TIM

Siena: Curci, Brandao (Ficagna 49), Portanova, Codrea, Del Grosso, Zuniga, Kharja, Vergassola, Barusso (Ghezzzal 55), Calaio (Amoruso 70), Maccarone
Subs not used: Coppola, Eleftheropoulos, Rossi, Frick

Goals: Maccarone 62

AC Milan: Abbiati (Dida 12), Favalli , Maldini, Pirlo, Jankulovski, Zambrotta, Beckham, Ambrosini (Kaka 46) (Ronaldinho 72), Flamaini, Pato, Inzaghi
Subs not used: Emerson, Antonini, Shevchenko, Senderos

Booked: Ambrosini, Favalli
Goals:Pirlo 07 (pen), Inzaghi 45 & 71, Pato 55 & 78

Attendance: 15,000

Referee: Nicola Ayroldi

Match Stats
	Siena	AC Milan
Shots (on Goal)	15(3)	8(5)
Fouls	17	21
Corner Kicks	6	2
Offsides	5	9
Time of Possession	44%	56%
Yellow Cards	0	2
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	0	2

I can deal with booing - Beckham

2009-03-12T16:57:00.001Z

David Beckham insists he can handle any hostility from LA Galaxy fans when he returns to Major League Soccer.

The 33-year-old midfielder has upset some supporters with his desire to remain with AC Milan in Italy.

But he told BBC Sport: "The booing, the criticism, I've had it all before. That side of it doesn't bother me.

"Real football people will turn around and say 'he's passionate about playing for his country and knows what he needs to do to make that happen'."

Beckham had been scheduled to return to Galaxy on 9 March but wanted to make a permanent move to the San Siro.

After weeks of negotiations, he eventually settled for a dual contract after Milan baulked at the size of the transfer fee Galaxy were demanding - thought to be about £12m.

He will now return to Los Angeles on 10 July.

Beckham argues that he needs to be playing top-flight football in order to give himself every chance of winning a place in Fabio Capello's England squad for next year's World Cup in South Africa.

But former Galaxy general manager Alexi Lalas, who brokered the $250m deal that took Beckham to MLS in January 2007, says that reasoning will cut little ice with Galaxy fans.

"He'll get booed and it's of his own making," said Lalas.

But Beckham countered: "If I do get that, I'm sure my team-mates will rally round me."

He also insisted he was "committed" to the Galaxy and MLS and that he had missed his three sons while he had been in Italy.

Beckham said: "It's tough not spending time with them. I've missed two of their birthdays in the last few weeks.

"It is really hard because I'm so passionate as a dad as well and I miss them so much. They'll understand when they are big boys and they can say to their friends their daddy played for AC Milan, Real Madrid and Manchester United. They'll understand."

Source: BBCi

Smithy Meets Beckham

2009-03-12T16:45:00.004Z

This is soooo funny! Smithy does the England team talk!

Source: YouTube

Donate to Comic Relief

Beckham 'will be booed' - Lalas

2009-03-11T11:24:00.003Z

David Beckham can expect a rude welcome from LA Galaxy fans when he returns to the US, says the man who signed him.

Former Galaxy general manager Alexi Lalas brokered the $250m deal that brought the England star to Major League Soccer in January 2007.

But little more than two years later Beckham has dipped into his own pocket to extend his loan spell with AC Milan, a move that has hugely upset US fans.

"He'll get booed and it's of his own making," Lalas told BBC Sport.

"If he comes back this summer, as has been reported, I'm sure he'll do everything he can to help the team on the field.

"But I'm also sure there is something to be said for having players on your team who want to be there. I don't think that's too much to ask."

The 33-year-old Beckham is scheduled to return to LA in mid-July after taking a month's holiday following the end of the Italian season.

This means he will miss the first half of the MLS season and only be available for six home games in 2009 - not what the Galaxy had in mind when they agreed to let Beckham go to Milan on what was supposed to be a three-month loan in January.

But Beckham's determination to cement his place in England manager Fabio Capello's plans for the 2010 Fifa World Cup finals, and his belief that this could only be done by playing top-level football in Serie A, forced the US outfit into a corner.

Matters came to a head earlier this week when, with the deadline for his original return date looming, an unprecedented "timeshare" agreement was announced between AC Milan and the Galaxy.

The fact that Beckham was partially funding this unique deal himself left nobody in any doubt just how badly he wanted to stay in Italy - a far cry from the lofty ambitions to "break" soccer in America that he voiced back in 2007.

Those words and subsequent statements about his continued commitment to the Galaxy and the MLS, including his intention to buy a US team in the future, have been given short shrift by angry fans on internet message boards. The Galaxy's fans forum is almost unanimous in its opposition to Beckham.

But this is hardly surprising given the club's disastrous form since his arrival - form that cost Lalas his job in August - or the fact that Beckham earns $6.5m a season, over twice as much as the next best-paid player and over 43 times the league average.

Lalas, 38, understands the Englishman's desire to play in what will be his fourth World Cup but is sympathetic to the frustrations of the supporters.

"I don't begrudge him the opportunity to play in a World Cup and if he feels this is the most direct path to get to it, fine, I know what it means to represent your country," said Lalas, who was capped 96 times by the US in a career that included a two-year stint in Italy.

"But as long as he understands there are ramifications to these decisions.

"What it comes down to is that the Galaxy fans don't care if David Beckham plays for them or not. All they want is a winning team, that's what they're used to.

"And they have recognised that this craziness (surrounding Beckham's future) is detrimental to getting back to where the Galaxy needs to be.

"So he'll take some of the heat when he does come back, some of it deserved, some of it probably not. But this is sport and I'm sure he won't lose any sleep over it.

"Galaxy fans are a very knowledgeable and they recognise there has been good and bad in David coming to the team, but they just want a good team and the current situation is not ideal, to say the least."

Lalas, however, is convinced that the gamble to bring Beckham, who has just tied World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore's record for outfield appearances for England, to America was worth it.

"Anybody who says that the signing of David Beckham has been failure is delusional and is not seeing the bigger picture," he said.

"His impact in terms of giving the Galaxy and the MLS a platform from which to spring to the next level cannot be overstated. He has brought incredible recognition and credibility to the league."

Source: BBCi

Beckham injures ankle in training

2009-03-11T11:22:00.002Z

AC Milan have revealed that David Beckham suffered an ankle injury during training on Tuesday.

The news comes only two days after the midfielder agreed to extend his loan from LA Galaxy until the end of this season, a move he part-funded himself.

"During today's training, David Beckham suffered a trauma to his right ankle," said AC Milan in a statement on the club's website.

"In the next few days his condition will be evaluated."

Milan have been hit by a spate of injuries in recent weeks.

Playmaker Kaka has been out with a foot injury since 7 February, while striker Marco Borriello and midfielder Gennaro Gattuso are injured.

Ronaldinho, Clarence Seedorf and Massimo Ambrosini are not fully fit.

Milan, currently third in Serie A, visit 15th-placed Siena on Sunday.

Source: BBCi

Beckham planning to buy MLS team

2009-03-11T11:18:00.001Z

David Beckham plans to exercise a clause in his contract allowing him to buy a Major League Soccer franchise at the end of his playing career.

The midfielder agreed a dual contract on Friday that will allow him to play for both AC Milan and LA Galaxy.

And he is already making plans for when his Galaxy contract ends in 2011.

"I have the right to own an MLS franchise, which I will action immediately after I have stopped playing," Beckham said.

Beckham reiterated his "commitment to develop soccer in the United States, which is something I am passionate about" and said his family will remain in LA.

There have long been rumours that Beckham has a clause in his Galaxy contract allowing him the first right of refusal on an MLS franchise at the end of his career.

This is the first time any of the parties involved have confirmed the existence of the clause.

If Beckham goes ahead with his plan to buy a franchise, the MLS would partner him with a patron with major financial clout.

The Seattle Sounders, whose majority owner is film executive Joe Roth, had to pay a $40m "franchise fee" to join MLS for the 2009 season.

The MLS also has a requirement that prospective franchises have a "soccer specific stadium" - which was waived in the case of Seattle - and Ottawa, for example, have vowed to spend $100m on a new stadium if they win a spot in the 2011 MLS.

On top of this outlay there would then be wage bill and running costs for prospective new franchise owners. Seattle's wage bill for the 2009 season is more than $3.3m (£2.4m).

The Sounders will become the 15th team in the MLS when they join the league this season, Philadelphia will join in 2010 and there are plans to add two more franchises in 2011.

Vancouver, Ottawa, Portland and St Louis are in the running for the 2011 places.

Beckham, who would probably enter a deal with his manager, Simon Fuller, would be unlikely to get involved with one of these bids.

Las Vegas and San Diego, who have long expressed an interest in joining MLS and are close to Beckham's LA base, would be more likely destinations.

Source: BBCi

Beckham does Sesame Street

2009-03-09T17:53:00.001Z

Source: YouTube

Match Report: AC Milan 3 - 0 Atalanta

2009-03-08T18:26:00.007Z

AC Milan 3 - 0 Atalanta
Serie A TIM

AC Milan: Abbiati, Maldini, Senderos, Pirlo, Zambrotta, Bonera (Antonini 84), Beckham (Viudez 90), Jankulovski , Flamini, Inzaghi (Shevchenko 80), Pato
Subs not used: Cardaccio, Dida, Darmian, Emerson

Booked: Bonera, Jankulovski
Goals: Inzaghi 07, 71 & 74

Atalanta: Consigli, Peluso , Talamonti, Bellini , Garics, Cigarini (Parravicini 76), Guarente (De Ascentis 60), Valdes, Pinto (Defendi 68), Plasmati, Padoin
Subs not used: Cerci, Coppola, Pellegrino, Capelli

Booked: Peluso, Bellini

Attendance: TBC

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Match Stats
	AC Milan	Atalanta
Shots (on Goal)	14(6)	20(6)
Fouls	19	13
Corner Kicks	1	7
Offsides	5	5
Time of Possession	50%	50%
Yellow Cards	2	2
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	6	3

Beckham happy with AC Milan deal

2009-03-08T18:22:00.002Z

David Beckham has hailed his special dual contract with AC Milan and LA Galaxy as a "dream deal".

The 33-year-old former England captain confirmed he would stay on loan at Milan until the end of the season before returning to the United States.

Beckham said: "I'm really grateful to the LA Galaxy and AC Milan for making this dream deal happen."

He will continue to develop the game in the United States saying: "This is something I am passionate about."

Beckham was scheduled to return to Galaxy on 9 March, but wanted to make a permanent move to the San Siro.

However the so-called timeshare deal means he will play for both.

Details on whether he will come back to Milan at the end of the Major League Soccer season in November are yet to be finalised but it is expected he will return to Italy, either in another loan deal or a full transfer.

Beckham is believed to have agreed a salary cut to ensure the move goes ahead.

He confirmed his family would remain in Los Angeles during his time in Italy, which is set to end on 30 June.

"My family is happy and settled and will remain in LA. The perfect result for 2009 would be for me to help Milan to reach the Champions League and for the LA Galaxy to make the play-offs and win the MLS Cup," he added.

The Englishman, who signed a five-year deal with Galaxy in January 2007, moved to Milan in January to stay fit during the MLS off-season and so maintain his bid for an England place.

But Milan have been so impressed with the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star that they moved to keep him for longer.

Beckham has scored two goals in nine Serie A games during his time with Milan.

The deal follows weeks of negotiations between the two clubs during which Milan baulked at the size of the transfer fee Galaxy were demanding - thought to be around £12m.

Beckham's desire to play for a top club in order to cement his place in the England squad for the 2010 World Cup finals led to him effectively funding the unique loan deal himself.

Source: BBCi

Beckham agrees deal to stay at Milan

2009-03-06T19:21:00.000Z

David Beckham will stay at AC Milan until the end of the season and will also play for the Italian giants for most of next season.

A unique 'timeshare' agreement has been agreed between LA Galaxy and Milan that will see the England midfielder divide his time between the two clubs.

It is understood that Beckham will return to the MLS between July and October, before returning to Italy in November, where he will remain until the end of the season.

The two clubs have been locked in negotiations to reach an agreement, with a fee for the former Real Madrid star difficult to agree on. It is understood that Galaxy were demanding £12m for Beckham's services.

Under the timeshare agreement it is thought that Beckham will fund much of the loan fee himself.

The news will delight Beckham who has been desperate to secure the deal, which he hopes will boost his England prospects.

Source: Independent

Beckham would cut salary to move

2009-03-05T18:17:00.001Z

David Beckham has agreed to take a salary cut as negotiations over a move from Los Angeles Galaxy to AC Milan go to the wire, BBC Sport understands.

Beckham, 33, is scheduled to return to Galaxy on 9 March, but the England midfielder wants to make permanent his loan move to Milan.

The deadline has put the pressure on all sides to conclude negotiations.

There is understood to be a significant sticking point, and Beckham's return to LA Galaxy remains a possibility.

The Major League Soccer side are sticking to their line that they expect him back on 9 March.

One possible resolution is for Milan to extend the loan until the end of the Italian season.

Beckham would then return to the Galaxy for the remainder of the MLS season, before heading back to Milan in November.

The Englishman, who signed a five-year deal with the Galaxy in January 2007, moved to Milan in January to stay fit during the Major League Soccer off-season and so maintain his bid for an England place.

Milan have been impressed with the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, however, and are keen to make the move permanent.

Beckham has scored two goals in nine Serie A games during his time with Milan.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: Al Sadd 1 - 2 AC Milan

2009-03-04T23:20:00.005Z

Al Sadd Sports Club 1 - 2 AC Milan
Friendly - Doha Qatar

Al Sadd: Saqr (Zaidan 80), Rashed (Mohamed 77), Rabia (Nasser 46), Abdulmajed, Ayil; Feindouno, Abdulrab, Felipe (Afif 60), Mesaad; Khalfan (Al Haydous 60), Opoku (Soria 46) (Hamed 76)

Goals: Mohammed 37

AC Milan: Abbiati (Dida 46); Antonini (Darmian 46), Thiago Silva, Maldini (Bonera 16) (Senderos 46), Favalli; Beckham (Pirlo 46), Emerson (Viudez 60), Cardacio, Jankulovski (Zambrotta 46); Pato (Inzaghi 46), Shevchenko

Booked: Jankulovski
Goals: Pato 27, Antonini 38

Attendance: TBC

Referee: TBC

Milan hope for Becks loan extension

2009-03-02T22:16:00.002Z

AC Milan chief Adriani Galliani has confirmed the club are working hard to extend David Beckham's loan until June.

The Italian giants have been locked in talks for weeks over Beckham, and as Sky Sports confirmed on Monday, they were looking into the prospect of a 'timeshare' agreement.

Galliani has again confirmed Milan's intention to sign Beckham, but revealed their idea was now to extend his loan until June - after which point he will return to Los Angeles Galaxy, and then in January he will join the club for free as he has a clause in his contract which allows him to leave the MLS in November.

"I hope I succeed in sorting it out that he stays until 30th June," Galliani told the club's television station.

"After that he can go back to Los Angeles, before returning to us next January (Beckham will cost nothing come November 30).

"That is what we are trying to do. It is complicated as we always knew it would be, but we are still trying."

Beckham is due to report back to LA in just over a week's time but he remains hopeful he will be allowed to remain with Milan until the end of the season, at least.

No sale
Meanwhile, Galliani has confirmed there are no plans to sell the club.

Reports over the last few weeks have suggested that the San Siro outfit could be sold.

But Gallani has reiterated that the club's current hierarchy are happy.

"I reaffirm. Milan are not for sale. I've spoken with president Silvio Berlusconi and the shareholders are tranquil", he told Italian press.

Source: Sky Sports

Match Report: Sampdoria 2 - 1 AC Milan

2009-03-02T21:34:00.007Z

Sampdoria 2 - 1 AC Milan
Serie A - TIM

Sampdoria: Castellazzi, Lucchini, Accardi, Raggi (Gastaldello 71), Franceschini , Sammarco, Palombo , Pieri, Stankevicius (Padalino 84), Cassano (Marilungo 88), Pazzini
Subs not used: Dessena, Ziegler, Mirante, Da Costa

Booked: Franceschini, Palombo, Raggi, Padalino
Goals: Cassano 33, Pazzini 51

AC Milan: Abbiati , Bonera, Senderos , Zambrotta, Antonini (Inzaghi 45), Pirlo , Flamini , Jankulovski (Favalli 55), Beckham (Emerson 68), Pato, Seedorf
Subs not used: Shevchenko, Dida, Maldini, Favalli, Cardaccio,

Booked: Abbiati, Pirlo, Senderos, Flamini
Goals: Pato 80

Attendance: 25,000

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Match Report: AC Milan 2 - 2 Werder Bremen

2009-02-27T01:14:00.007Z

AC Milan 2 - 2 Werder Bremen
UEFA Cup (Round of 32 - 2nd Leg)
Werder Bremen win 3-3 on aggregate on the away goals rule

AC Milan: Dida, Zambrotta, Senderos , Maldini, Favelli (Jankulovski 77), Beckham, Pirlo , Ambrosini, Seedorf (Flamini 54), Pato, Inzaghi (Shevchenko 62)
Subs not used: Abbiati, Kaladze, Bonera, Antonini

Booked: Pirlo, Senderos
Goals: Pirlo 27 (Pen), Pato 33

Werder Bremen: Vander, Fritz , Mertesacker, Naldo, Pasanen (Boesnich 67), Tziolis, Frings, Ozil (Jensen 90+1), Diego, Almeida (Rosenberg 61), Pizarro
Subs not used: Mielitz, Prodl, Baumann, Harnik

Booked: Fritz, Ozil, Rosenberg
Goals: Pizarro 68 & 78

Attendance: 23,280

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (SWE)

Beckham visits United training

2009-02-24T19:36:00.003Z

David with Alex Ferguson at Manchester United's pre-match training in Milan ahead of their Champions League game against Internazionale

Match Report: AC Milan 1 - 0 Cagliari

2009-02-22T22:40:00.002Z

AC Milan 1 - 0 Cagliari
Serie A TIM

AC Milan: Abbiati , Maldini, Zambrotta, Jankulovski, Favalli, Bonera (Senderos 71), Pirlo, Beckham (Antonini 90+1), Flamini, Inzaghi (Ambrosini 84), Seedorf
Subs not used: Dida, Kaladze, Viudez, Emerson

Booked: Abbiati
Goals: Seedorf 65

Cagliari: Marchetti, Luis Lopez, Pisano, Canini, Matheu (Agostini 83), Conti, Cossu, Biondini (Lazzari 73), Fini , Acquafresca (Matri 63), Jedaias
Subs not used: Lupatelli, Astori, Bianco, Parola

Booked: Acquafresca, Fini

Attendance: 56,188

Referee: Massimiliano Saccani

A bit of a protest!

2009-02-19T23:22:00.002Z

LA Galaxy fans show their discontent with Beckham and the Milan affair.

Personally I agree with them "Let him Go!"

Galaxy dismiss Becks rumours

2009-02-19T23:19:00.002Z

Los Angeles Galaxy coach Bruce Arena has dismissed reports which have suggested AC Milan are on the verge of agreeing a deal for David Beckham.

The England international is currently at the centre of a long-running transfer saga after expressing a desire to make his loan move to San Siro permanent in order to reinforce his chances of playing at the 2010 World Cup.

Milan are understood to have had an initial bid in the region of £6million rejected by Galaxy, who are thought to want around £8m for the midfielder, but the Serie A club's vice-president Adriano Galliani claimed earlier on Thursday that 'progress' had been made.

However, Arena has rubbished the opinion of Galliani and has reiterated that he expects former Manchester United and Real Madrid star Beckham to return to America when his temporary venture in Italy comes to an end on 9th March.

Agreement
"I suspect those rumours, in terms of AC Milan sending a delegation over, were not accurate," Arena - who has also loaned Landon Donovan to Bayern Munich - told Sky Sports News.

Rumours have suggested Galaxy could be prepared to accept a cash-plus-player deal, involving either Kakha Kaladze or Daniele Bonera, as Milan look for alternatives in striking an agreement.

Arena confesses there will be will be further talks with Milan, but insists that, if the situation changes, MLS outfit Galaxy will be the club to prosper.

"Certainly there will be discussions with Milan as we move down the road," he added.

Benefit
"But again, as we have stated all along, as of now, we fully anticipate David to be back, as well as Landon.

"However, if anything changes, the change will be to the benefit of Galaxy. We have said that all along and have tried to be consistent with that.

"If things change, they change. But, right now, we anticipate both players being back."

Meanwhile, Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi is adamant he is in the dark regarding Beckham's situation.

"I'm unable to give an answer because I know nothing. I'd like it if Beckham could continue playing at Milan, because his game is essential", he told Italian media.

Source: Sky Sports

Match Report: Werder Bremen 1 - 1 AC Milan

2009-02-18T23:50:00.006Z

Werder Bremen 1 - 1 AC Milan
UEFA Cup (Round of 32 - 1st Leg)

Werder Bremen: Wiese, Fritz (Harnik 74), Mertesacker, Naldo , Boesnisch, Tziolis, Baumann (Jensen 62), Diego , Ozil, Pizarro, Almeida
Subs not used: Vander, Pasanen, Prodl, Niemeyer, Rosenberg,

Booked: Naldo, Diego,
Goals: Diego 84

AC Milan: Dida, Bonera, Senderos, Favalli , Zambrotta, Flamini , Pirlo, Ambrosini , Seedorf (Jankulovski 86), Ronaldinho (Beckham 89), Inzaghi
Subs not used: Abbiati, Maldini, Kaladze, Darmian, Antonini

Booked: Ambrosini, Flamini, Favalli
Goals: Inzaghi 36

Attendance: 36,151

Referee: Michael Dean (ENG)

Beckham reluctant to return to US

2009-02-16T18:34:00.002Z

David Beckham says he would be reluctant to return to the LA Galaxy as he seeks to make permanent his loan spell with Serie A club AC Milan.

Galaxy are unhappy Milan failed to meet a Major League Soccer deadline over any move on Friday for the 33-year-old.

"I know it will be difficult to go back after everything that's happened," he said after Sunday's Milan derby defeat.

BBC Sport understands that AC Milan representatives will fly to Los Angeles this week for further negotiations.

The England midfielder added: "I've said I want to stay at Milan and I haven't changed my mind, but it's out of my hands."

Beckham had to come off early in the second half of AC Milan's 2-1 defeat by Inter Milan because of an injury to his right leg.

However, it is understood the midfielder will take part in training on Monday and travel to Werder Bremen on Wednesday for Milan's Uefa Cup tie.

"There will be more talks this week between the two clubs and hopefully, as I've said before, they can come to an agreement," said Beckham, who is on loan in Italy until 9 March.

"Milan have made it clear that they want me for the rest of the season and so on, so we'll have to wait and see.

"I hope things will go the way I want them to, of course. But if I have to go back, I will be professional, because that's what I have to do."

Sunday's defeat left AC Milan nine points behind Serie A leaders Inter.

"We're quite far behind them now and we needed to win the game, but you never know," said Beckham, "This league is strange, you can win one week and lose the next, so there's a chance, but it's a slim chance.

"I was struggling a bit because I got a kick on my calf playing for England on Wednesday and it didn't really clear up, and then I got another kick on it tonight, it's just one of those things."

Inter Milan's Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes Beckham belongs at Milan - a place where he can show his true quality.

"I haven't followed his story every day it's true, but big players should absolutely play in big teams and Beckham is one of those," Ibrahimovic told BBC Sport, "He has done well for Milan, he is a good team player and has helped them a lot since he arrived at the club.

"I think he is becoming very important for them, especially in the way he plays, because he is a great team player and they have other players with different qualities."

Galaxy have increasingly adopted a tougher negotiating stance over Beckham and on Friday insisted he must go back to Los Angeles after the Major League Soccer deadline passed.

Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has dismissed Galaxy's stance as a "tactic", while the Serie A club's coach Carlo Ancelotti thinks a move is still possible.

Beckham joined Milan on loan in an attempt to revive his international career after England head coach Fabio Capello said he needed to be playing more competitive football.

The England international, who equalled Bobby Moore's England record of 108 caps for an outfield player in last week's 2-0 defeat by Spain in Seville, has become a regular for Milan since his arrival in January.

However, with England set for nine internationals from the end of March until October, including six qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup, a return to the MLS could see Beckham left out of the national squad.

Milan, who have had a £5m bid for the 33-year-old rejected, have so far failed to meet the Galaxy's valuation, which is reportedly in excess of £10m.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star has settled in quickly at the San Siro, impressing both Ancelotti, his team-mates and rival managers with his professionalism and work ethic.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: Internazionale Milan 2 - 1 AC Milan

2009-02-15T22:44:00.005Z

Internazionale Milan 2 - 1 AC Milan
Serie A TIM

Inter Milan: Julio Cesar , Maicon, Samuel , Chivu, Santon, Zanetti, Cambiasso , Muntari (Maxwell 88), Stankovic (Burdisso 84), Ibrahimovic, Adriano (Vieira 80).
Subs: Toldo, Cordoba, Figo, Cruz

Booked: Samuel, Cambiasso, Burdisso, Vieira, Cesar
Goals: Adriano 29, Stankovic 43

AC Milan: Abbiati, Zambrotta, Maldini, Kaladze, Jankulovski, Beckham (Inzaghi 53), Pirlo, Ambrosini ; Seedorf, Ronaldinho, Pato.
Subs: Dida, Emerson, Favalli, Antonini, Flamini.

Booked: Ambrosini
Goals: Pato 71

Attendance: 76,178

Referee: Roberto Rosetti

Beckham and AC Milan still hopeful of LA Galaxy deal

2009-02-14T21:11:00.001Z

David Beckham and AC Milan remain confident of completing a deal to keep the England international in Italy on a permanent basis, despite Los Angeles Galaxy insisting negotiations were at an end.

Milan are believed to have offered £7 million to turn Beckham's loan deal, which expires on March 9, into a long-term move, but Galaxy and Major League Soccer are holding out for £12 million.

When Milan failed to match the asking price on Friday, the Galaxy chief executive Tim Leiweke cancelled talks and stated that the club expected Beckham to return for the start of the MLS season.

Both the Italian side and the player himself are hopeful a deal can still be agreed. Beckham's spokesman Simon Oliveira said yesterday: "David is focused on [tonight's] Milan derby. Every option is still open. We will be addressing this early next week."

Carlo Ancelotti, the Serie A club's manager, said: "We still have 20 days to complete the deal. Galaxy have forced the situation, but there's time. I hope he can play in other derbies."

Galaxy expect Milan to return with an improved bid, though they are still likely to fall short of the MLS estimate. There has been talk between the two camps over a possible cash plus player deal, with Galaxy keen to shore up their leaky defence with a high-profile centre half.

Milan are thought to be happy to exchange either Kakha Kaladze or the Italian international Daniele Bonera, while Galaxy are thought to be keen on inheriting the first option Milan have on Arsenal's Philippe Senderos.

Beckham has made it plain he wants to stay in Italy, where he has the chance to become the only player to win the Italian, Spanish and English league titles.

The England manager, Fabio Capello, has made no secret of his desire to see Beckham playing to a higher standard than that offered by the MLS, and Beckham's ambition remains to play for England at next year's World Cup.

Capello would not rule out selecting Beckham should he return to America, but it would certainly harm his international prospects.

Beckham will now meet with his advisors this week to devise the best course of action should the two clubs fail to agree a fee. Buying out his contract with the Galaxy remains an option, while he has a clause in his deal allowing him to leave for nothing in October.

Source: Telegraph

Milan fail in bid to sign Beckham

2009-02-14T09:57:00.002Z

David Beckham is to return to LA Galaxy after AC Milan failed to agree a deal before a US league deadline.

Milan had a £5m bid for the 33-year-old rejected last week and Major League Soccer ordered the clubs to agree a permanent move by Friday.

Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena said in a statement that no acceptable offer had been received. The club says no late offer would be considered.

Beckham's loan spell at the Serie A club ends on 8 March.

The England international, who equalled Bobby Moore's England record of 108 caps for an outfield player in Wednesday's 2-0 defeat against Spain in Seville, has become a regular for Milan's since his arrival in January.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti urged the club to "make sacrifices" to keep the midfielder at the San Siro, while Beckham had remained "hopeful" a deal would go through.

"It is something I want to happen, but we have to wait and see," said Beckham ahead of Sunday's top-of-the-table derby clash with Inter.

But Milan failed to meet the Galaxy's valuation of their star, reportedly in excess of £10m.

"Today's deadline imposed by Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber regarding a resolution of David Beckham's potential transfer to AC Milan has passed and we did not receive an acceptable offer for the player," said Arena.

"As a result, David remains an LA Galaxy player and we look forward to having him back with the club starting March 9."

Beckham had moved to Milan on loan in a bid to revive his England career after national head coach Fabio Capello said he needed to be playing more competitive football.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star made an immediate impression at the San Siro, impressing both Ancelotti and his team-mates with his professionalism and work ethic.

He also made a big impact on the pitch, scoring on his third appearance and netting with a trademark free-kick in the recent win over Genoa, a game watched by Capello.

His form prompted Milan to pursue the idea of keeping him permanently, with the player himself keen to remain.

But the chief executive of Galaxy owners AEG, Tim Leiweke, insisted there would be no back-tracking and Beckham would continue his career in the MLS once the loan deal ran out.

"We don't want to entertain any more conversations now," Leiweke told the told the Los Angeles Times.

"It is a distraction to Bruce Arena, the team and the fans, and we move on. That's the last we're going to talk about this."

Asked what would happen should the Italian return with an improved offer, Leiweke said the club "owe it to our fans" not to consider it.

"They've been reading all these stories and we lose credibility by the day," he said.

"That's not fair. We owe it to Bruce and we owe it to the rest of the team. We're a month away from our season."

Last week, the Galaxy rejected Milan's first bid for Beckham, who has scored two goals in his short stint with the Italian giants.

Leiweke insists the Rossoneri have never come close to meeting AEG's and the league's asking price.

"They've never been in the ballpark," he said. "What they've tried to do is use David and use us.

"We're not going to play that game any more. This has been extremely damaging and distracting for our team.

"I've been as courteous and as gracious as I possibly can out of respect for David, but now it's time to move on. We need to get David excited about the team we're building here and coming back."

Leiweke also did not think Beckham would consider buying himself out of his contract in order to complete the move.

"I doubt it," Leiweke said. "I don't think that's his intent. Nor would I encourage him to even think about that."

US football expert Sean Wheelock told BBC Radio 5 Live that he thought Beckham could still end up at Milan.

"Until I actually see a definite statement coming out of the New York offices of MLS soccer and quotes of the league commissioner, Don Garber, I don't believe that this matter is resolved," said Wheelock.

"I still think that there is a chance - albeit a slim one - that David Beckham could stay permanently at AC Milan and may not return to LA Galaxy. I just don't think this is a resolved matter."

Source: BBCi

Beckham still wants Milan move

2009-02-12T21:02:00.002Z

David Beckham is still hoping his loan stay at AC Milan can be made permanent as the deadline for the deal moves closer.

Beckham equalled Bobby Moore's outfield record of 108 England caps on Wednesday and thinks that his place in the squad for the 2010 World Cup could hinge on whether he plays in Europe or the United States.

The Los Angeles Galaxy player is wishing a last-minute deal can be completed before the Friday deadline set by MLS commissioner Don Garber.

"I am still hopeful. It is something I want to happen, we have to wait and see. We want it sorted out as quick as possible," Beckham said.

Best Interests
LA Galaxy manager Bruce Arena revealed that talks between the two clubs are ongoing but did not say how far negotiations had progressed

If the Californian team do not accept an offer from Milan, Arena is confident Beckham will honour his contract and play in the upcoming MLS season.

"There are a variety of things we've discussed but it's not public information and when Milan give us what they feels is their best offer, we'll examine it and make a decision whether it's in the best interests of our club or not," Arena said.

"If David Beckham returns, he is a good professional and he's going to play, and play well.

"David Beckham understands what a contract means, he will honour his contract, whether it's with LA Galaxy or AC Milan.

"David is a great player, we'd miss him if he leaves, no question about that. However it's a team sport and one player doesn't make a team.

"We'd be thrilled to have him return but if we lose Beckham, we lose him. That's football."

Source: Sky Sports

Match Report: Spain 2 - 0 England

2009-02-12T00:05:00.003Z

Spain 2 - 0 England
International Friendly - Seville

Spain: Casillas (Reina 46), Sergio Ramos, Pique, Albiol (Marchena 75), Capdevila (Arbeloa 46), Alonso, Senna, Iniesta, Xavi (Guiza 84), Torres (Llorente 64), Villa (Silva 56).
Subs Not Used: Busquets, Riera, Juanito, Santi Cazorla.

Goals: Villa 36, Llorente 82.

England: James (Green 46), Johnson, Ashley Cole, Carrick, Jagielka (Upson 46), Terry, Wright-Phillips, Barry (Lampard 46), Heskey (Crouch 46), Downing (Beckham 46), Agbonlahor (Carlton Cole 75).
Subs Not Used: Bridge, Ferdinand, Hart, Milner, Ashley Young, Luke Young.

Booked: Beckham.

Attendance: 42,102

Referee: Stephane Lannoy (FRA).

MLS give Milan Beckham deadline

2009-02-12T00:02:00.001Z

Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber has set a deadline of Friday for AC Milan to agree a deal to sign David Beckham from LA Galaxy.

The 33-year-old is on loan at the Italian giants and he has spoken of his desire to stay at the San Siro.

"If David believes he wants to continue his career in Milan and Milan want to purchase him, we're interested in accommodating that request," he said.

"It continues to go round in circles and needs to be concluded by Friday."

Beckham's loan deal is due to end on 8 March and Garber will have to approve any potential deal, but he stated they are not prepared to wait as the start of the new season in the United States approaches.

"There's no reason why this should drag on," said Garber. "They either want to do it or don't want to do it.

"They need to understand that this is getting very close to the start of our season. We have plans that we need to make, and David Beckham is a part of those plans, as is every other player in the league."

In a letter sent to AEG, the investor-operator of LA Galaxy, he added: "We are prepared to be supportive of transferring David to AC Milan for a transfer fee that acknowledges the value of his services to the Galaxy and the League.

"However, if the issue is not resolved by the end of the week, it will be difficult, if not impossible, for us to go forward with the transfer."

Beckham signed a five-year contract with the Galaxy in January 2007, but has impressed during his brief stay in Italy.

He has scored twice and earned a place in Milan's Uefa Cup squad, while he has also regained his place in England's squad for Wednesday's friendly with Spain.

Garber also confirmed that Beckham has a get-out clause in his contract that he can exercise after the 2009 season.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: AC Milan 1 - 1 Reggina

2009-02-08T21:16:00.006Z

AC Milan 1 - 1 Reggina
Serie A TIM

AC Milan: Abbiati, Maldini, Bonera , Flamini , Jankulovski, Zambrotta, Ronaldinho (Inzaghi 65), Ambrosini (Seedorf 56), Beckham, Pato, Kaka (Antonini 78)
Subs not used: Kaladze, Dida, Senderos, Cardaccio

Booked: Bonera, Flamini
Goals: Kaka 67 (pen)

Reggina: Campagnolo , Valdez, Santos, Lanzaro , Barilla , Carmona, Cozza (Cirillo 90), Costa, Krajcik, Corradi , Di Gennaro (Sestu 58)
Subs not used: Rakic, Puggioni, Viola, Alvarez, Hallfredsson

Booked: Campagnolo, Corradi, Barilla, Cozza, Lanzaro
Goals: Di Gennaro 34

Attendance: 53,182

Referee: Nicola Pierpaoli

Beckham returns to England squad

2009-02-07T21:08:00.002Z

David Beckham has been named in Fabio Capello's England squad for the friendly against Spain on 11 February.

Beckham has impressed during his loan spell with AC Milan and will now be given the chance to equal Bobby Moore's record of 108 England appearances.

England manager Capello had hinted the 33-year-old was likely to win a recall.

Beckham's attempts to equal Moore's record have previously been frustrated - he was left out of the squad that beat Germany in Berlin in November.

"He is a media star and for this reason all the fans spoke about him in this way before he arrived; like a star not a player," said Capello earlier in the week.

"But now he has played three games, and every game has been better."

England squad:
Goalkeepers: Green (West Ham), Hart (Man City), James (Portsmouth).

Defenders: Bridge (Man City), A Cole (Chelsea), R Ferdinand (Man Utd), Jagielka (Everton), G Johnson (Portsmouth), Terry (Chelsea), Upson (West Ham), L Young (Villa).

Midfielders: Beckham (LA Galaxy), Barry (Villa), Carrick (Man Utd), Downing (Middlesbrough), Lampard (Chelsea), Milner (Villa), Wright-Phillips (Man City), A Young (Villa).

Forwards: Agbonlahor (Villa), C Cole (West Ham), Crouch (Portsmouth), Heskey (Villa).

Spain squad:
Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Liverpool).

Defenders: Raul Albiol (Valencia), Carlos Marchena (Valencia), Alvaro Arbeloa (Liverpool), Joan Capdevila (Villarreal), Juan Gutierrez (Real Betis), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Carles Puyol (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid).

Midfielders: Xabi Alonso (Liverpool), Albert Riera (Liverpool), Sergi Busquets (Barcelona), Santiago Cazorla (Villarreal), Marcos Senna (Villarreal), Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), David Silva (Valencia).

Forwards: Daniel Guiza (Fenerbahce), Fernando Llorente (Athletic Bilbao ), Fernando Torres (Liverpool), David Villa (Valencia).

Source: BBCi

Galaxy want more for Beckham

2009-02-07T20:13:00.001Z

LA Galaxy have told AC Milan they must up their current offer if they want to prolong David Beckham's time in Italy.

The England international has made no secret of his desire to remain at the Serie A giants past the end of his current loan deal

The experienced midfielder has even suggested that he would be willing to cut short his contract in America and finish his career back in Europe.

Milan are yet to reach an agreement with the Galaxy which will allow that desire to be fulfilled, with the MLS outfit unwilling to do business with the current terms on the table.

"We need to end the distractions, the circus and the zoo. We just received an offer. It was rejected," Galaxy chief executive Tim Leiweke told the Los Angeles Times, "If David ultimately is an asset for this team, we want him back.

"If David ultimately has a hunger and a desire to come help us make the impact on the pitch that we wanted to make with him but haven't done yet, then he's an important member of this team and our intention is to bring him back.

"Clearly, if David's in a position where he wants to finish the season in Milan, and Milan in turn compensates the Galaxy so that we can suffer no damages to our fans or to our team, then we'll take a look at it.
Disgruntled

"But we have made it very clear to them that we expect David back here on 9th March. They agree and understand we own the contract. They understand the only way we do this is if, when this is all said and done, the Galaxy benefits.

"If the Galaxy comes out better without David than with David, then we'll take a look at it."

Leiweke added: "We understand his infatuation with playing on the world's most popular club team right now, and we understand his trying to mentally get around the idea of coming back to play with a team that didn't make the play-offs in MLS last year.

"That said, David and us actually are talking. He has never forced our hand on anything. This is not a legal conversation and has never been a legal conversation. He does not have lawyers looking at the contract.

"David has made it very clear that if our decision is to bring him back here, he will return. Period.

"Last time I checked, we're the ones that have the contract. So the decision as to where David's going to play this year is as much ours as anyone's.

"If David comes back, it will be because there were decisions made by all involved and he'll accept that. I don't think he'll be as disgruntled as the media makes it out to be."

Source: Sky Sports

Beckham eager to stay with Milan

2009-02-05T19:48:00.004Z

David Beckham has confirmed he wants to secure a permanent move to AC Milan from his American club LA Galaxy.

Beckham denied his lawyers were talking to the Galaxy, as Milan general manager Adriano Galliani had claimed, but hopes the two clubs can agree a deal.

"I have expressed my desire to stay," he said. "Now it's just down to Milan and Galaxy to come to an agreement.

"I have enjoyed my time here. I knew I would enjoy it but I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I have."

Beckham was speaking in Glasgow on Wednesday after playing the first 45 minutes for Milan in their 2-2 friendly draw with Rangers.

The England international, 33, is on loan at the San Siro until 9 March and has helped lift Milan to second place in Serie A, scoring in his last two games.

"I've expressed my desire to stay here for a while but at the moment I'm still a Galaxy player," Beckham said.

"I respect the Galaxy and everything they have done for me. They have always been great to me."

But Beckham added: "I hope they can come to an agreement and it's down to the clubs now. At this point it's out of my hands. I've said what my feelings are to both clubs.

"To be given the chance again to play at this level at my age is pretty incredible and I've enjoyed it so much I would like to continue it. I think people have seen the way I've been since playing at this level again."

One of Beckham's key reasons for joining Milan on loan was to prove himself to England manager Fabio Capello and after putting in such impressive performances in Italy so far Beckham now believes the 2010 World Cup in South Africa is a realistic target.

"It's nothing against the MLS and the football over there, because it's a game that will grow but it will take quite a few years.

"I'm still confident that will happen eventually, but I want to have a chance of being involved in 2010 and I believe my best chance of doing so is to remain here."

Galliani had said earlier on Wednesday that Beckham's lawyers were already talking to Galaxy.

"If they show themselves to be ready to look at a deal, we would be really happy to do so," Galliani said.

Beckham is registered with the Serie A giants until 30 June, so if a deal is agreed with the Major League Soccer side then the loan term can be extended outside the transfer window, which closed on Monday.

Milan have taken that into account by including the England player in their Uefa Cup squad.

"We are looking to get him either on loan until the end of the season or on a permanent basis," added Galliani, "Otherwise, with the greatest regret from everyone - starting with me - Beckham will have to go.

"Players can make their choices but their clubs can refuse their wishes. Moreover, Los Angeles Galaxy have always been very nice to us and have behaved in a very gentlemanly manner.

"In any case, at this moment there are no dealings and we haven't made an offer but Beckham's lawyers are talking with Los Angeles.

"There is time until 8 March to get us round a table and close a possible deal."

The Galaxy refused to discuss Galliani's claims. Spokesman Patrick Donnelly said on Wednesday: "We have no comment to make."

However, the former general manager of LA Galaxy, Alexi Lalas says Backham's England career may be the reason he wants to stay in Italy while also recognising the significance his departure would have on the game in America.

"I know how important it is for David to play with the national team," said Lalas.

"Obviously he feels that for him and maybe for Fabio Capello, the best route in order to do that is to be at Milan.

"He has obviously done great things on the field since he has been there and I think he is happy by all accounts.

"For the Galaxy, for Major League Soccer and for soccer in the United States, obviously it is a loss."

Source: BBCi

Match Report: Glasgow Rangers 2 - 2 AC Milan

2009-02-05T19:15:00.007Z

Glasgow Rangers 2 - 2 AC Milan
Friendly - Ibrox

Rangers: McGregor (Alexander 46); Whittaker, Weir (Broadfoot 46), Bougherra (Dailly 46), Papac; Naismith (Niguez 59), Edu (Davis 74), Mendes (Ferguson 46), McCulloch (Boyd 80), Lafferty (Beasley 46), Fleck (Velicka 46)
Subs not used: None

Booked: TBC
Goals: Beasley 25, Papac 38

AC Milan: Dida; Mattioni (Jankulovski 60), Thiago Silva, Senderos (Darmian 46), Antonini (Albertazzi 74); Beckham (Seedorf 46), Flamini (Cardacio 60), Pirlo; Ronaldinho (Kakà 60); Inzaghi, Shevchenko (Pato 67)
Subs not used: Donnarumma, Strasser

Booked: TBC
Goals: Pato 25, Kaka 38

Attendance: TBC

Referee: Collum

Beckham team in talks over Milan

2009-02-04T20:05:00.001Z

David Beckham's lawyers are in talks with Los Angeles Galaxy over extending the midfielder's stay at AC Milan, says the Italian club's general manager.

Beckham, 33, on loan at the San Siro until 9 March, has helped lift Milan to second place in Serie A, scoring two goals and producing good displays.

"Beckham's lawyers are talking to Galaxy," said Milan's Adriano Galliani, "If they show themselves to be ready to look at a deal, we would be really happy to do so."

Beckham is registered with the Serie A giants until 30 June, so if a deal is agreed with the Major League Soccer side then the loan term can be extended outside the transfer window, which closed on Monday.

Milan have taken that into account by including the England player, who is currently in Glasgow for the Italian club's friendly against Rangers on Wednesday, in their Uefa Cup squad.

"We are looking to get him either on loan until the end of the season or on a permanent basis," added Galliani.

"Otherwise, with the greatest regret from everyone - starting with me - Beckham will have to go.

"Players can make their choices but their clubs can refuse their wishes.

"Moreover, Los Angeles Galaxy have always been very nice to us and have behaved in a very gentlemanly manner.

"In any case, at this moment there are no dealings and we haven't made an offer but Beckham's lawyers are talking with Los Angeles.

"There is time until 8 March to get us round a table and close a possible deal."

The Galaxy refused to discuss Galliani's claims. Spokesman Patrick Donnelly said on Wednesday: "We have no comment to make."

Source: BBCi

Beckham makes AC Milan UEFA squad

2009-02-02T18:12:00.001Z

David Beckham has been included in AC Milan's Uefa Cup squad despite technically only being able to play in two of their games.

Beckham's loan spell with AC Milan is set to end on 9 March, at which point he is due to return to the LA Galaxy.

But the Italian giants have made no secret of their desire to keep the 33-year-old and his inclusion has added to rumours that he may stay beyond March.

Beckham again starred for his new club as they beat Lazio 3-0 on Sunday.

The England midfielder set up two goals as the Rossoneri closed the gap on Serie A leaders Inter Milan to six points.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star also played a full 90 minutes, proving his fitness to England boss Fabio Capello after being an injury doubt before the game.

Beckham crossed for Alexandre Pato to open the scoring before the break and then later whipped in a free kick which Massimo Ambrosini headed home for 2-0.

Kaka settled the game late on scoring his third goal in two games, as Milan moved above Juventus, who lost on Saturday.

Beckham has been in fine form since arriving in Milan on loan, scoring twice in four games.

If he does return to the America's MLS, Beckham would only be available for the Uefa Cup's last-32 games against Werder Bremen on 18 February and 26 February.

"We have included him because he is playing well," said AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"We want to take advantage of his form for the two games against Werder Bremen."

The England star was a doubt before the Lazio game after injuring his abductor muscle in the 1-1 draw with Genoa.

But he again proved his fitness to Capello ahead of February's friendly with Spain in Seville.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: Lazio 0 - 3 AC Milan

2009-02-01T18:16:00.002Z

Lazio 0 - 3 AC Milan
Serie A TIM

Lazio: Muslera, Rozehnal, Siviglia , Ledesma, Radu (Kolarov 75), De Silvestri, Meghni (Inzaghi 66), Matuzalem , Brocchi (Dabo 75), Zarate, Pandev
Subs not used: Cribari, Manfredini, Carrizo, Mauri

Booked: Matuzalem, Radu, Siviglia, Inzaghi

AC Milan: Abbiati, Bonera, Senderos, Jankulovski, Zambrotta (Darmian 86), Pirlo, Ambrosini , Beckham, Pato, Seedorf, Kaka (Shevchenko 86)
Subs not used: Emerson, Ronaldinho, Dida, Antonini, Inzaghi

Booked: Ambrosini
Goals: Pato 42, Ambrosini 47, Kaka 83

Attendance: 50,000

Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Opinion Poll

2009-01-29T23:51:00.001Z

Should Beckham be allowed to leave LA Galaxy for AC Milan? ( polls)

Match Report: AC Milan 1 - 1 Genoa

2009-01-29T21:25:00.007Z

AC Milan 1 - 1 Genoa
Serie A TIM

AC Milan: Abbiati, Favalli , Maldini , Jankulovski, Zambrotta , Pirlo, Ambrosini , Beckham (Flamini 71), Pato (Ronaldinho 74), Seedorf (senderos 79), Kaka
Subs not used: Inzaghi, Dida, Antonini, Shevchenko

Booked: Favalli, Beckham, Ambrosini, Zambrotta, Flamini, Maldini
Goals: Beckham 33

Genoa: Runinho, Boccetti, Criscito , Biava , Juric , Milanetto, Motta (Borre 45), Modesto (Jankovic 40), Mesto, Milito, Sculli (Palladino 63)
Subs not used: Olivera, Papastrathopoulos, Rossi, Scarpi

Booked: Juric, Criscito, Biava
Goals: Milito 87

Attendance: 49,907

Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Beckham on target again for Milan

2009-01-29T21:20:00.002Z

David Beckham capped another fine game for AC Milan with a goal - in front of watching England coach Fabio Capello.

The 33-year-old netted a trademark free-kick against Genoa - but did limp off before the end with an injury to an abductor muscle.

Meanwhile, LA Galaxy have insisted Beckham has no interest in extending the agreed three-month loan spell.

Senior executive Tim Leiweke said: "He loves it in LA. His kids go to school here and there is no story."

Leiweke, president of Anschutz Entertainment, who own LA Galaxy, told the LA Times: "David is under contract to the Galaxy and I had a good, straightforward conversation with him before he left.

"He wants a better Galaxy team, we're going to have a better team and David has no interest in going. We have a contract and we have a handshake. He's going to return to the Galaxy."

However Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti, club lawyer Leandro Cantamessa and president Silvio Berlusconi have previously expressed their desire to extend Beckham's stay beyond 8 March, when he is due to return to Los Angeles for the start of the Major League season.

"If Beckham comes to an agreement with Galaxy, we are ready to pay a figure. In the coming days we will meet his advisors," Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani told Italian broadcasters Sky Sport 24 on Tuesday.

"If Los Angeles Galaxy decide not to sell him, they won't sell him."

Galaxy coach Bruce Arena has suggested that AC Milan should speak to the American club first before making their thoughts public.

Ancelotti responded by stating that the only deal Milan has in place with Beckham is the current one.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder has already proved a hit with the Serie A giants. He has started all four games and scored two goals, the first in the 4-1 win over Bologna.

He asked to be substituted in the 1-1 draw against Genoa on Wednesday with an abductor muscle injury in his groin, but hopes to be fit for Milan's game against Lazio on Sunday.

Beckham said: "I felt it before the game and then again just before half-time. I got to 20 minutes in the second half and I felt it a little more. It's painful but hopefully I will be fit for the game at the weekend."

Capello was at the game to check Beckham's form ahead of the friendly against Spain on 11 February.

The midfielder added that he had not spoken to Capello. He said: "The most important thing is that I concentrate on my game here and my fitness. If I get in the England squad, great. Everyone knows how much playing for my country means to me."

If he plays against Spain he will equal Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps for an outfield England player.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: Bologna 1 - 4 AC Milan

2009-01-25T20:20:00.002Z

Bologna 1 - 4 AC Milan
Serie A

Bologna: Antonioli, Moras, Terzi, Bombardini, Zenoni, Volpi, Amoroso (Casarini 72), Mudingayi , Di Vaio (Marazzina 84), Adailton (Rodríguez 88), Valiani
Subs not used: Colombo, Coelho, Castellini, Lanna

Sent Off: Mudingayi 40 (Second Caution)
Booked: Mudingayi
Goals: Di Vaio 09 (pen)

AC Milan: Abbiati, Maldini , Senderos, Favalli, Zambrotta (Antonini 67), Pirlo, Ambrosini, Beckham, Pato (Ronaldinho 72), Seedorf, Kaka (Inzaghi 73)
Subs not used: Darmian, Flamini, Dida, Shevchenko

Booked: Zambrotta, Maldini
Goals: Seedorf 13, Kaka 17 (pen) & 43, Beckham 59

Attendance: 34,000

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Video

Source: YouTube

Beckham off the mark for AC Milan

2009-01-25T20:16:00.001Z

David Beckham scored his first goal for AC Milan in the Italian club's 4-1 Serie A victory against 10-man Bologna.

On loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy for three months, the England midfielder scored Milan's fourth goal, finishing off a slick move with a powerful shot.

Brazil's Kaka, who rejected a world record move to Manchester City last week, scored twice - a penalty and a shot from the edge of the box.

Milan's other goal was scored by veteran Dutchman Clarence Seedorf.

Milan got off to the worst possible start when Serie A top scorer Marco Di Vaio scored a ninth-minute penalty but Carlo Ancelotti's side soon drew level when Seedorf slid the ball home after Kaka's effort was parried.

Kaka then took control of the game, netting with a penalty and a superb left-foot shot, before Beckham wrapped up Milan's win.

"To score my first goal is great and I will keep this shirt, but the important thing is we won here," said Beckham, who is due to return to LA Galaxy on 9 March.

"I can't say what will happen," added Beckham, responding to growing speculation he might stay in Italy. "Even if my contract says that I'll be here until March. We'll have to see."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti added: "Our hands are tied because he has a clear contract.

"We can't do anything to change things, he can definitely do something. He must sort out his contract with the American team. I'm a realist - we'll take advantage of him for now."

Source: BBCi

Beckham wants to stay with Milan, say reports

2009-01-24T19:49:00.002Z

David Beckham is learning Italian and is determined to stay at AC Milan, it has been claimed.

The former Manchester United star, who is on loan from LA Galaxy to the Serie A side, is even willing to take a drastic drop in wages.

Top-selling Italian sports daily Gazzetta dello Sport splashed the news across its front page with a headline in English reading: 'Beckham Forever.'

The paper also claimed that he was staying up until the early hours every day to brush up on his Italian verbs - not an easy task - and had downloaded conversation classes on his iPod for away trips on the coach and plane.

His current contract with LA Galaxy is worth an estimated $200million over five years but he is willing to sacrifice this in order to ensure a continued place within the England side.

Insiders at AC Milan said Beckham had 'fallen in love' with Milan and enjoyed its climate because it was very similar to Britain's.

His contract ties him to LA Galaxy until the latter half of 2011, but he can get out after three which would be in October.

The former Real Madrid winger would therefore be able to move to Milan in the 2010 January transfer window but Beckham feels this is to late as he would be almost 35.

He wants to ensure regular football so he can play in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa for his beloved England and Fabio Capello's No 2 Franco Baldini has been keeping an eye on him.

AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani has also praised Beckham and said:'He is a great player. At first we were criticised for taking on a doll but now there is regret that he is leaving in March.

'We always knew that this was the deal. I always knew that he would be useful to us and for our plans.'

Baldini refused to comment on what future plans they had for Beckham but Gazzetta said that 'secret moves' were underway to ensure that he stayed at AC Milan.

Source: Daily Mail

Gattuso: Beckham has surprised everyone

2009-01-21T21:50:00.002Z

Injured AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso said on Wednesday that former England captain David Beckham has been a revelation at the club.

Gattuso faces several months on the sidelines after injuring his cruciate knee ligament in December but Beckham has come in to fill his place in the team and is quickly becoming a favourite for players and fans alike.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is on a two-and-a-half month loan from his current club LA Galaxy.

"He's surprised me in a positive way. He's a great professional, he arrives at training two or three hours early," said the Italian midfield general.

"He's not Kaka but he's a great player. He's playing in my position because I'm injured but we're completely different.

"For sure he sets up more goals than I do but I win back more balls."

Gattuso also turned his attention to Kaka in an interview on Italia 1, and said he faced a similar situation in the summer when many thought he would leave Milan.

"Kaka is an idol, he had a good think about it (leaving) but everyone really wants him here," he said.

"He's in a team that helped him to win the Ballon D'Or. Last year I also thought that my Milan experience was over and I would be going to Bayern (Munich) but then the club and I cleared things up."

Gattuso also spoke about homosexuality in football, a subject that came up in a magazine article last year when an unknown third division player claimed he worked as a gigolo on the side and had slept with many Serie A players, including some in the Italy team.

"I've never seen a gay on the pitch. I've got nothing against gays, I even know a few, but during my 14-year career I've never met one," he said.

"And as I said a while ago, as far as I'm concerned a man and a woman get married in church."

Source: AFP

Match Report: Hannover 96 2 - 3 AC Milan

2009-01-21T19:56:00.004Z

Hannover 96 2 - 3 AC Milan
Friendly
AWD Arena Hannover

Hannover 96: Enke, Pinto (Balogun 85), Eggimann, Fahrenhorst, Rausch, Huszti (Smideback 85), Rosenthal (Zizzo 65), Balitsch (B. Schulz 70), C. Schulz, Stajner (Bruggink 65), Forssell (Hanke 46)
Subs not used: TBC

Goals: Huszti 10, Hanke 75

AC Milan: Dida (Kalac 46); Bonera (Jankulovski 46); Senderos (Hurtado 46), Thiago Silva, Antonini , Beckham (Seedorf 46), Emerson, Flamini (Cardacio 77); Ronaldinho (Kaka 46); Shevchenko (Darmian 65), Inzaghi.
Subs not used: TBC

Booked: Antonini
Goals: Shevchenko 52, Inzaghi 55 & 76

Attendance: TBC

Referee: Rafati (GER)

Match Report: AC Milan 1 - 0 Fiorentina

2009-01-17T21:00:00.006Z

AC Milan 1 - 0 Fiorentina
Serie A

AC Milan: Abbiati, Maldini, Zambrotta, Jankulovski , Favalli, Pirlo, Ambrosini, Beckham (Senderos 80), Pato (Ronaldinho 78), Seedorf (Flamini 69), Kaka
Subs Not Used: Dida, Antonini, Inzaghi, Shevchenko

Sent Off: Jankulovski 90+2 (Kicking Ball Away)
Booked: Beckham, Jankulovski
Goals: Pato 07

Fiorentina: Storari, Kroldrup, Gamberini, Vargas , Comotto , Montolivio, Kuzmanovic (Bonazzoli 72), Santana (Gobbi 82), Melo, Jovetic, Gilardino
Subs Not Used: Dainelli, Zauri, Donadel, Semioli, Seculin

Booked: Vargas, Comotto

Attendance: 65,692

Referee: Roberto Rosetti

Beckham makes Milan Serie A debut

2009-01-13T20:24:00.004Z

On-loan AC Milan midfielder David Beckham made his competitive Serie A debut against Roma on Sunday.

Beckham played 89 minutes in the Olympic Stadium before he was replaced by Mathieu Flamini as Milan drew 2-2.

The England international had been expected to start on the bench, but Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti played him on the right of a three-man midfield.

Beckham had not played a competitive game since the end of the MLS season with Los Angeles Galaxy in October.

"I found out I was going to start before the game during the team meeting," said the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player.

"I was very happy that the manager kept me on for as long as he did because it is important for me to get match fitness. To be honest, I felt better than I thought I would feel.

"I was surprised to have started the game but I am happy. Playing out there is what I love doing and I enjoyed it.

"I didn't think I would last that long but I felt so good. At half-time I felt really strong. I think the manager saw that I felt good, that I still had energy and he kept me on.

"Now I just hope to start some more games, but I will take one step at a time."

Ancelotti said Beckham, 33, had been rewarded for his commitment in training.

"I decided to start with Beckham because he had demonstrated over the last few days that he was intelligent, serious and committed," said the Italian.

"This was his reward for settling in so quickly. I will never tire of pointing out that he is an exemplary professional who works hard."

Mirko Vucinic put Roma ahead midway through the first half with his third goal in three games against Milan when he blasted home.

Just after the interval, Alexandre Pato equalised when he tapped in Kaka's cross - and the 19-year-old Brazilian striker soon clipped in a superb second.

Montenegro striker Vucinic again netted with a diving header on 72 minutes to secure Roma a point.

Beckham's stint with the Italian club ends in March, when the Major League Soccer season resumes, but it has been suggested that he may be tempted to extend his stay at Milan if his spell goes well.

The midfielder added after the match: "The contract and the agreement is that I go back to LA on March 8th or 9th so I'm going to enjoy it up to then and we'll see.

"It is great to play at this club and to be out there with some great players.

"I'm enjoying being part of this team and training with these players but I will take it one step at a time.

"It's pretty amazing to be among some of those players and I'm glad to just give them the ball and they'll deliver."

The Italian press gave Beckham average marks for his performance.

"Ninety minutes that nobody expected," reported the Gazetta dello Sport, which gave the player six out of ten. "He played hard, crossed, shot and helped with humility. For his debut it was enough."

The Rome-based Corriere dello Sport, which also gave Beckham a six for his display, was less complimentary.

"He made few errors, without shining, in the first half," the paper commented. "In the second half, he exited nearly completely from the scene."

It added that Beckham "seemed disorientated, and had trouble understanding where his position on the field should be".

One of the reasons Beckham moved to Italy was to help him maintain his fitness as he seeks to prolong his international career.

England's next game is a friendly against European champions Spain on 11 February.

If selected, Beckham would equal Bobby Moore's outfield record of 108 caps.

Source: BBCi

Match Report: AS Roma 2 - 2 AC Milan

2009-01-11T22:33:00.000Z

AS Roma 2 - 2 AC Milan
Serie A

AS Roma: Doni, Juan, Mexes, Riise , Cassetti (Cicinho 82), Taddei (Cortez 65), De Rossi, Baptista, Perrotta, Brighi (Aquilani 84), Vucinic
Subs Not Used: Artur, Panucci, Loria, Montella,

Booked: Riise, Brighi
Goals: Vucinic 22 & 72

AC Milan: Abbiati, Maldini, Zambrotta, Jankulovski, Favalli, Pirlo , Beckham (Flamini 89), Pato, Seedorf , Kaka, Ronaldinho (Ambrosini 70)
Subs not used: Dida, Kaladze, Antonini, Inzaghi, Shevchenko

Booked: Pirlo, Seedorf
Goals: Pato 49 & 53

Attendance: 53,444

Referee: Emidio Morganti

Match Report: Hamburg SV 1 - 1 AC Milan

2009-01-06T20:55:00.005Z

Hamburg SV 1 - 1 AC Milan
AC Milan win 4 - 3 on penalities
Dubai Challenge Trophy

Hamburg SV: Hesl, Demer, Reinhardt, Mathijsen, Aogo; Jarolim, Alex Silva (Benjamin 64), Trochowski (Thiago Neves 46), Jansen (Boateng 72); Guerrero (Petric 46), Olic
Subs not used: Wolf, Putsilo, Castelen

Booked: Silva
Goals: Benjamin 67

AC Milan: Dida; Zambrotta, Maldini (Senderos 46), Kaladze (Favalli 46), Jankuloski (Antonini 46); Beckham (Flamini 46), Pirlo (Emerson 46), Ambrosini (Cardacio 82); Ronaldinho; Pato (Inzaghi 46), Shevchenko
Subs not used: Abbiati, Darmian, Cardacio

Booked: Maldini, Ambrosini
Goals: Ronaldinho 62 (pen)

Penalty Sequence: Petric (goal), Ronaldinho (goal), Thiago Neves (saved), Shevchenko (goal), Olic (goal), Inzaghi (goal), Aogo (missed), Emerson (saved), Demel (goal), Flamini (goal).

Attendance:

Referee: Ali Hamid

Beckham makes bow in AC Milan win

2009-01-06T20:46:00.002Z

David Beckham played for 45 minutes on his AC Milan debut as the Serie A giants beat Hamburg 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 friendly draw in Dubai.

The former England captain started the game in a Milan team that also featured Massimo Ambrosini and Andrea Pirlo.

Ronaldinho put the Rossoneri ahead with a 63rd-minute penalty, but Collin Benjamin equalised four minutes later.

Beckham joined Milan on loan from US side LA Galaxy in a bid to prove his fitness and regain his England place.

The 33-year-old is due to stay at the Italian side until March, when the US season resumes, and could make his Serie A debut when Milan play Roma on Sunday.

And he will join the late Bobby Moore as England's second-highest appearance maker behind Peter Shilton if he features against Spain on 11 February.

The ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder has made no secret of his desire to continue playing for his country.

Making an impact in Italy would undoubtedly help his cause, but Beckham has insisted he did not move to the San Siro purely to stay in Capello's plans.

"I didn't join Milan just for that reason," said Beckham. "I have never played in Italy and I think it's one of the best leagues in the world.

"I want to concentrate on working with the team. I am willing to work really hard for my place in the squad.

"I always try to have no regrets in life, or in my career. I made the decision to go to LA two years ago and I've had a good time there."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has indicated that Beckham will play some part in Rome this weekend.

"He is a great champion - a very, very good player," said Ancelotti. "He needs to work hard because there is a lot of competition in the squad. But we'll use him for sure."

Beckham added: "I'm always ready to play but I know the coach decides. Physically, I know I need to work hard to reach 100%, not just to be able to play but to play well.

"I have this chance to play for one of the biggest clubs in the whole world."

Source: BBCi

Big Picture

2008-12-30T19:25:00.002Z

Beckham trains with the Rossoneri in Dubai

Maldini impressed by Beckham

2008-12-30T19:06:00.001Z

AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini has praised the work ethic of loan signing David Beckham.

The England midfielder is in Dubai with the rest of the Milan squad after joining the team on a short-term deal from the Los Angeles Galaxy and took part in his first training session with his new team-mates today.

Beckham has not played since the end of the MLS season in October, but Maldini is confident the former Manchester United star will be match fit again soon.

"Beckham is a great champion, but we shouldn't forget that he has come into a great team and a great club like Milan," said Maldini.

"We players don't care what his life is like off the pitch, we have found a lad who has not trained for two and a half months, but I have had the chance to talk to him and I noticed his determination and his great desire to put himself to work immediately to return to playing as soon as possible."

Beckham officially becomes a Milan player on 7 January and could make his debut four days later, against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has reiterated his belief that the former England captain will make a valuable contribution to the team before he returns to Los Angeles in March.

"This morning he took part in his first training session with the team," he said. "I believe he is an important player and that he will give his contribution to Milan.

"He is a player who can play in all three roles in midfield and he has immediately put himself at the disposal of the group.

"This week away will be useful to evaluate his physical condition and then we will evaluate when it will be possible to use him in official games."

Meanwhile, club doctor Jean Pierre Meersseman believes Beckham can continue playing for another five years at least, by which time the midfielder will be 38 years old.

"He will be at his top level in 15-20 days," he told Sky Italia. "The tests which he did showed that he is already very good.

"He has an exceptional physique which will allow him, as happened to Maldini or (Alessandro) Costacurta, to play for another five or six years."

Source: The Independent

Beckham Has New Tattoo

2008-12-29T16:48:00.002Z

David Beckham's latest tattoo has not gone down too well with wife Victoria as he takes another step towards becoming a walking work of art.

The new Milan man is getting ready to meet up with his team-mates this week and he thought he would do it by adding more colour to his left arm.

The tattoo is a proverb believed to be taken from the Bible and it reads:

"My son, do not forget my teaching but keep my commands in your heart."

Sources close to the Beckhams told The Sun that Victoria is not impressed:

"Victoria doesn’t think David should have any more tattoos and tried to stop him having another. She likes his tatts but wants a bit of his skin to be left, yet David went ahead with it anyway.

“She is worried he is hooked and she doesn’t know where it will all end. He is a very healthy bloke.

“He doesn’t smoke, barely drinks and looks after his body very carefully. But his addiction is tattoos.

“So while his insides are as clean as a whistle, his outsides are quite the opposite.”

Milan are preparing to head off for their annual tour of Dubai and Beckham is expected to join them later today. The club have never really revealed their stance on all of the midfielder's tattoos.

Source: The Sun/Goal.com

Milan: Beckham Can Play Until 40

2008-12-29T16:41:00.001Z

The Rossoneri's fitness guru has declared that old Goldenballs has another six years left in him.

When David Beckham left Real Madrid for the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007, it was assumed he was waving goodbye to Europe and top-tier club football.

Less than two years later, however, the England midfielder is back on the continent after completing a loan switch to AC Milan, where he will spend the Major League Soccer off-season.

The Italian giants are eager to make the deal permanent, and club medic Jean-Pierre Meerseeman believes Becks, who turned 34 in May, can play on until 2015.

The Sun quoted Meerseeman as saying: “Beckham could go on for another five or six years.

“His cardiovascular readings are very good. His basic fitness is excellent. All he needs to do now is to alter his training programme slightly.”

Milan's track record in fielding veritable OAPs is impressive. Alessandro Costacurta played until the age of 41, while Paolo Maldini is still going at 40. All three of their first-team goalkeepers - Christian Abbiati, Zeljko Kalac and Dida - are in their mid 30s.

And although Beckham has not played since the MLS season ended, Meerseeman reckons he will be fit and firing within three weeks.

He continued: “We test and re-test our players in every aspect of body and mind.

“David is behind the others right now in terms of match fitness. It will take 15-20 days to reach the required level.”

Source: The Sun/Goal.com

Beckham ends £2 million a year Pepsi deal

2008-12-27T13:39:00.003Z

David Beckham will no longer appear as the face of Pepsi after ending his big money deal with the soft drinks giant, it has been disclosed.

After 10 years advertising the fizzy pop brand, Beckham, 33, will not be renewing his contract, which was reportedly worth £2 million a year.

The 33-year-old father-of-three, who is on loan to AC Milan from his US team LA Galaxy, said: "I have nothing but good memories of my association with Pepsi.

I've played a gladiator, a cowboy, a surfer, and worked alongside Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez as well as some of the biggest names in world football. I hope everyone who has seen the work enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed making it."

It is understood the end of the Pepsi deal will leave Beckham more time to focus on other products.

Over the years he has been associated with a whole range of brands, including Gillette, adidas, Vodafone and Armani.

A PepsiCo spokesman said: "Pepsi is proud to have worked with David Beckham for 10 years, during which time he has been among the most successful and inspiring international footballers of all time.

"Our partnership has been one of the most enduring in global brand history and David will always be part of our Pepsi family.

"David's football legacy will live on and everyone at Pepsi will continue to be as passionate about his success as we have been over the last 10 years.

We wish David well with the many projects he is pursuing and look forward to the possibility of partnering together with him again someday."

In April Which? wrote to Beckham to complain that he and other stars were promoting unhealthy products to children.

The magazine said such promotions were "extremely disappointing" and footballers should use their influence to encourage children to have a healthy diet.

Source: Daily Mail

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2008-12-24T17:13:00.002Z

Milan to make Beckham decision

2008-12-22T19:21:00.001Z

Adriano Galliani says AC Milan will decide in January about whether to include David Beckham in the club's Uefa Cup squad.

Beckham was presented as Milan's new loan signing over the weekend, with the midfielder joining the Italian giants from LA Galaxy.

The former England captain is due to finish his spell at the San Siro on 9th March, which means he would only be eligible for the Uefa Cup last 32 tie against Werder Bremen in February.

Milan's vice-president Galliani confirmed Beckham's fitness is good and will not rush into a decision regarding his involvement in Europe.

"Beckham is in good physical condition," said Galliani. "He will be here with us for nine Serie A games and will also play some friendlies.

"We will then consider whether to include him or not in our Uefa Cup squad because eventually he would only be able to play up to the first and second leg of the last 16 of the competition.

"We will make this decision by the end of January."

Help
Beckham attended Milan's 5-1 win over Udinese on Sunday and his new team-mate Kaka is confident the midfielder will be a good addition to the squad.

Kaka told Sky Sports: "We saw him today and he's here for us. It's very nice to have Beckham for the next two months, he will help us a lot."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti is also expecting Beckham to be a useful recruit, with the 33-year-old in contention to make his debut against Roma on 11th January.

Ancelotti said: "Certainly there is a place for him because he is a great player.

"He is very well prepared tactically and he can give a contribution to this team.

"He is in good condition and if he is one of the 11 names on the team sheet, then it is because he deserves to be there."

Source: Sky Sports

Beckham makes San Siro entrance with 'Forza Milan'

2008-12-22T19:08:00.003Z

The England international walked to the centre of the field to mutter the words Forza Milan to a half-empty stadium at his new club, AC Milan, at the weekend.

Beckham then admitted he might struggle to get into AC Milan's first team during his loan spell with the Italian giants as he was unveiled to the world's media at the club's training ground.

The former England captain stressed he did not expect to "arrive here and change everything."

"It will be difficult to get in the team as it always is at a big club," said Beckham, whose loan spell runs until March 8 when he rejoins Los Angeles Galaxy for the start of the new Major League Soccer season.

"It is tough at any of the biggest clubs in the world to go straight into the team - it just doesn't happen.

"But right now I'm in better form than was expected of me. I hope to train hard with my new team-mates. But I don't want to upset the balance that's already here, I want to help the team.

"There are players such as (Paolo) Maldini, Ronaldinho and others here, players that I have admired and tried to copy.

"I don't expect to arrive here and change everything. It's a great opportunity for me and I hope to have fun."

Beckham, 33, is on the verge of equalling Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps for an England outfield player.

But he accepted Fabio Capello, who pointed him in Milan's direction, would not select him if he was playing reserve team football on a day when England's Italian manager said he would not be swayed by sentimental considerations.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder was officially presented to the media on Saturday after completing a medical.

He will stay in Milan to watch the club's match against Udinese at the San Siro on Sunday before leaving Italy on Monday.

Beckham will return on December 29 and join his new team-mates on the club's winter training camp in Dubai before trying to force his way into the Milan first team, something he admits won't be easy.

Beckham also revealed that he had sought the advice of Capello, whom he played under at Real Madrid.

"He has been and is someone I have a lot of respect for. When I thought about this move I asked him for his advice. I had said I preferred joining Milan but I wanted to play in Italy because I wanted to play at the top level.

"And Capello asked me to only play at the top level. It's right that he only picks me if I'm playing for my club. I've played for the biggest club in England, the biggest club in Spain and now I want to play for the biggest club in Italy."

Capello meanwhile made it clear that Beckham's proximity to 1966 World Cup winning captain Moore's international appearance record would have no bearing at all on his team selection.

"About David Beckham, I put him in the squad when he played with LA - and if he plays for AC Milan it is possible he will be in the squad," said Capello. "Beckham's record is not important for me - I decide the squad to win a game, not for the record."

Theo Walcott's shoulder injury could give Beckham a better chance of adding to his tally, although Shaun Wright-Phillips is among his rivals for a place on the right side of midfield when Capello next picks an England team, for the February friendly against Spain.

"He is a serious player and very important - but he will only be in the squad if it is a good moment for him at Milan," Capello said of Beckham. "When he plays it's because he's fit for me, not the record," the England manager added after watching Aston Villa go third in the Premier League with a 1-0 win away to West Ham on Saturday.

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said Beckham would have to earn his place in the team, despite a long-term injury to key central midfielder Gennaro Gattuso.

"He can play anywhere across the midfield and a lot has been said about his free-kicks but the important things is the way he trains. And if he deserves to play, he will play. I'm very happy that he's here."

Source: Telegraph

Beckham explains Milan decision

2008-12-20T21:27:00.002Z

David Beckham says a key reason behind his loan move to AC Milan was the relatively short length of the football season in the United States.

"I've always said I would miss playing at the highest level," said the 33-year-old Los Angeles Galaxy player, who was unveiled in Milan on Saturday.

"I'm not saying that in America they won't get to the highest level - it will take time and it will happen.

"But with five months off during the season I personally can't do that."

Beckham, who has 107 England caps, joins Milan until March to try to stay fit during the US close season and keep his place in the national team as he bids to surpass Bobby Moore's outfield record of 108 caps.

"I needed to be able to be playing top-flight football to keep myself fit, to keep myself in contention for other things that are going on," said Beckham, who began the news conference by addressing the assembled media with a few words in Italian.

The first game Beckham could potentially play for Milan is their away match against Roma on 11 January.

"I wouldn't have taken this opportunity if I didn't think I could help the team," said Beckham.

"It's not about anything else apart from the football. I've come here to play with some of the best players in the world.

"To be able to step on to the training field with Kaka, (Andrea) Pirlo, (Paolo) Maldini, Ronaldinho - there's so many players that I've always watched and played against but never played with.

"There's some great players out there and I don't expect to walk in on the first day and be starting in the team, it doesn't happen like that.

"I'm going to work hard in training, I'm going to get my fitness - because I need to - and then once I'm fit, hopefully I can get some time in the team, and hopefully help.

"I know there's quite a few injuries at the moment," he added, referring to a lengthy injury list that includes the likes of Kaka, Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo and Mathieu Flamini.

Beckham, who will wear the number 32 shirt, is especially keen to line up alongside 40-year-old defender Maldini.

"What is great about AC Milan is the history of the club, that's what makes great clubs," said the Englishman. "Who better to represent the club than Maldini?

"He's still playing at top level. That just shows the club's amazing structure, amazing beliefs in players whether they're young or old. As long as they're talented it doesn't matter.

"I've played against him and know how good he is. Now to play with him, well it's a huge honour.

"I love the history behind great teams, I've said it before. I loved playing for Manchester United. They will always be the team that gave me my start, gave me the chance to win so many trophies.

"I fell in love with Real Madrid too and now that I've seen AC Milan, I'm already falling in love.

"It's going to be hard to leave but I'm going to have a great time here I hope."

Earlier on Saturday Milan suggested they would consider signing Beckham on loan again in 2010 if his two-month spell goes well.

"We hope Beckham leaves an indelible mark," said chief executive Adriano Galliani. "Next year we could repeat the experience, maybe for longer."

Galliani had previously hinted that Beckham may want to spend more than two months in Serie A but the chief executive played down the speculation.

"David Beckham will stay with Milan up to 9 March. The last match is Milan v Atalanta on 8 March. I don't want to delude anyone," he said.

Prior to his official unveiling Beckham had a medical at a private clinic.

Source: BBCi

Beckham : Joins the Rossoneri

2008-12-20T18:18:00.005Z

Beckham passes Milan medical

2008-12-20T13:10:00.001Z

David Beckham was greeted by supporters at Malpensa airport and has undergone a two-hour medical with Milan doctors.

The media whirlwind that is Becks and wife Victoria hit the Italian shores at 09.10 UK time this morning, when their private flight touched down at Malpensa.

The plane was provided by Milan President (and Italian Prime Minister) Silvio Berlusconi and Beckham was greeted at the airport by director Umberto Gandini, photographers, journalists, cameramen and fans.

While she drove towards the Four Seasons Hotel in Via Gesù, he made his way in a BMW to the La Betulle clinic.

A two-hour medical passed without incident, as he underwent stress tests, cardio and other routine examinations.

It was reported that David was able to speak some Italian with the medical staff, as he has been taking lessons during the close season of the MLS.

He will reunite with wife Victoria for lunch before meeting with general manager Adriano Galliani.

The presentation Press conference at San Siro will begin at 18.00 UK time.

Source: Channel 4

Milano gets ready for Beckham

2008-12-20T10:31:00.005Z

Beckham set for Rangers friendly

2008-12-18T15:26:00.002Z

David Beckham should be among the travelling party when AC Milan visit Rangers on 4 February.

The former England captain has agreed a short-term loan move to the Italian giants, who have struck a deal to play a friendly at Ibrox.

The 33-year-old, who plays for US side LA Galaxy, will join up with AC Milan on 7 January in a bid to stay fit during the MLS close-season.

"We are excited about it," said Rangers captain Barry Ferguson.

"It will be great for the young kids to see some of the superstars in football like Beckham, Kaka and Ronaldinho."

Beckham starred in an Ibrox friendly back in 1994, when Manchester United were 1-0 losers, while he was in the England team that won 2-0 in a Euro 2000 play-off match at Hampden.

Beckham has also sampled the atmosphere at Celtic Park, having played for a winning Manchester United side in Tom Boyd's 2001 testimonial.

Seven-time European champions AC Milan, who are currently fourth in Serie A, are involved in the Uefa Cup this season, having suffered a poor domestic campaign last term.

Source: BBCi

Kaka: Beckham can inspire us to win the double

2008-12-08T15:17:00.004Z

Kaka believes the arrival of David Beckham at AC Milan on loan next month will provide the springboard for the Rossoneri to win the Serie A title and UEFA Cup.

Former Manchester United midfielder Beckham joins Milan on a 10-week loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy on January 4 and the Brazil forward thinks the England international will be a positive influence on the side.

Kaka said: "Some think Beckham's move to Milan is negative but everyone here is delighted with his arrival.

"For us David will bring all his quality and professionalism to the side. This can help us achieve our aims this season which are to win the UEFA Cup and the Scudetto."

Kaka has reiterated his desire to play in the Barlcays Premier League later in his career.

"The experience of playing in England is always good," said the 26-year-old. "There is always a positive atmosphere there. The Premier League is a good competition but I have always said that I am a Milan player.

"If I do leave one day it will be because my ambitions are different to the club's and the Premier League could be the place where I will end up.

"Robinho has told me that Manchester City have a great project for the future."

Source: Daily Mail

Match Report: Oceania Allstars 0 - 3 LA Galaxy

2008-12-06T17:46:00.006Z

Oceania Allstars 0 - 3 Los Angeles Galaxy
Pre-Season Friendly Tour - Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand

Oceania: Bosnich (Spoonley 46), Li Fung Kuee (Sakama 92+), Old, Vicelich (Vava 76), Sale (Longue 64), Davids, Peverley, Smith (Soromon 85), Faarodo (Maemae 83), Karembeu (Muta 17), Masi (Molea 46) (Wajoka 88)
Subs not used: None

Booked: Perveley, Muta

LA Galaxy:Wicks, Randolph (Gavin 79), McDonald, Valentin (Roberts 64), Franklin, Tudela , Klein (Bowen 71), Lewis (Allen 75), Beckham (Griffin 79), Kirovski (Munoz 76), Gordon (Jordan 46)
Subs Not Used: Saunders

Sent Off:Tudela 68 (second caution)
Booked: Tudela
Goals: Kirovski 03, Gordon 14, McDonald 32

Attendance: 16,600

Referee: Michael Hester

Beckham and LA Galaxy in New Zealand - Press Conference

2008-12-04T21:52:00.002Z

Beckham and LA Galaxy in New Zealand - Arrival

2008-12-04T21:48:00.002Z

Becks still dreams of England

2008-12-04T21:44:00.001Z

David Beckham reiterated a desire to continue playing for England prompted his forthcoming loan switch to AC Milan after arriving in New Zealand for the Los Angeles Galaxy's exhibition clash with an Oceania All-Stars side.

The 33-year-old, who made the journey to New Zealand with the Galaxy for the second successive year, will join the Italian side in January on a two-month deal prior to returning to California in March for the start of the Major League Soccer season.

Beckham was not named in England manager Fabio Capello's squad for last month's friendly in Germany, but he hopes to return to the international fold and add to his 107 caps in the planned fixture with Spain in February.

"It's important that I keep my fitness up and that's one of the reasons I'm going to Milan for a few months," Beckham said in Auckland on Thursday.

"I take each game as it comes. If I carry on to the World Cup, then great but I'm enjoying the qualifiers at the moment and enjoying the way the team are playing and the way they are bonding together."

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, who is England's third most capped player behind Peter Shilton and Bobby Moore, said he is aware that he is in the 'mature' stage of his career and it is time to start thinking of the kind of person he wants to be remembered as.

"I've always wanted to be known as a hard worker on the field and successful," he said.

"I believe I've always worked hard in every game and every training session that I take part in."

Beckham believes Saturday's match at Mt Smart Stadium is important for the Galaxy.

"Some of the younger kids have not had much playing time, so it's a good opportunity for them to prove that they're good players and they're good Galaxy players."

The Oceania All-Stars side includes former Holland and Tottenham midfielder Edgar Davids and former France international and Middlesbrough midfielder Christian Karembeu.

"Playing against Christian again will be great - a World Cup winner, it doesn't come any bigger than that in football," Beckham said.

"Of course, it will be great to play against Edgar as well. I'll try to stay away from him, because I know he likes to kick people!"

"We've had a few battles in the past with Manchester United and Juventus."

Source: Sportal.nz

Beckham determined to fit in at Milan

2008-11-15T11:48:00.001Z

David Beckham will work with a personal fitness coach for the rest of the year to ensure he hits the ground running when he joins up with AC Milan in January.

The midfielder, who is not included in Fabio Capello's England squad for the friendly with Germany next week, is determined to play at least some matches for the Italian giants rather than viewing his two-month loan spell as a mere training exercise.

AC Milan's Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf has questioned whether the 33-year-old will play even a single match, saying it all depends on his fitness.

Beckham however is determined to arrive at AC Milan in the best possible shape, to prove he is worthy of taking part in Serie A matches.

To that end, he is likely to join up with AC Milan at their post-Christmas training camp in Dubai 10 days before he was originally expected to arrive at the club.

The change to his itinerary needs to be given the green light by the Los Angeles Galaxy, but it is expected to happen.

In the weeks before that, he will work with his personal fitness trainer to ensure that he does not arrive at AC Milan out of condition.

Sources close to Beckham did not expect him to be named in Capello's squad tomorrow, believing that the England head coach wants to try out some younger players in the friendly.

They are confident from their soundings however that Beckham will be given the opportunities next year to become the most-capped outfield player for England.

Beckham needs one more cap to match Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps - though he will still be some way short of keeper Peter Shilton's tally of 125.

Rio Ferdinand believes Beckham will reach the target set by Moore, describing his former Manchester United team-mate as 'a superstar on and off the field.'

Ferdinand said: "Nobody gave him those caps for fun. It hasn't been an easy ride to get where he is now."

Source: Daily Mail

Seedorf excited by Beckham

2008-11-13T19:15:00.001Z

AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf has spoken of his excitement at getting the chance to play alongside David Beckham.

The former England captain will spend two months with the Italian giants from January during the MLS close season in a bid to maintain his fitness in order to stay in England manager Fabio Capello's plans.

Former Holland international Seedorf firmly believes that Beckham can only improve as a player at the San Siro.

He told Sky Sports News: "We are all quite excited at how it will work and how he will fit in.

"Everyone is excited to have David Beckham in Milan so we are looking forward to him coming here.

"I will help him out to achieve his goals knowing that he is a great professional and that he will help us also to do the same thing."

Despite the words of encouragement Seedorf has warned his new team-mate that he is not guaranteed a place in the side.

He added: "I don't know if he is going to play for us, I think his first goal is to get fit and get in the best shape possible. Training with a club like AC Milan will definitely improve his game even if it is just from the training ground.

"The games for England will be his final goal and that's right as 2010 isn't so far away, so he has to work hard to show Capello that he is still there."

Source: Sky Sports

Capello set to axe Becks

2008-11-09T20:24:00.002Z

David Beckham is set to be dropped from Fabio Capello's England squad - despite securing a loan move to AC Milan.

Tabloid reports indicate that the ex-England skipper is about to pay the price for LA Galaxy’s failure to reach the MSL play-offs and will be axed for England’s clash with Germany on November 19.

The 33-year-old Manchester United legend is one cap short of Bobby Moore’s outfield player record of 108 and The Sun reports that Capello's camp believes he will lack match fitness for the prestigious friendly in Berlin as he will not have played a serious game for three weeks.

Capello had indicated Beckham might play against the Germans and sit out the proposed match against Euro champions Spain in February.

But it now appears he will leave Becks behind when England march on Berlin backed by 7,000 fans in two weeks’ time.

Now Beckham’s ability to reach Moore’s milestone — and perhaps go beyond it — will depend on how he gets on when he joins AC Milan on loan from January 7.

Capello is aware of Moore’s record — but he has never been bothered about public relations or personal ambitions.

Former No 1 Peter Shilton, who holds the overall appearance record of 125, accused Capello of gifting Beckham caps with late sub appearances.

However Capello is set to demonstrate only players who are fully match fit will be considered for England duty.

Newcastle striker Michael Owen looks set to be sidelined yet again for that reason.

The decision to omit Beckham from his Germany plans seems a bizarre one from Capello - if true - as it was the Italian's team who helped engineer the midfielder's loan move to Milan.

Source Daily Mail

Beckham to join Milan in January

2008-10-30T18:46:00.002Z

AC Milan have confirmed that England midfielder David Beckham will join the club on loan from 7 January.

The 33-year-old's representatives held talks with the Italian giants on Thursday and quickly reached agreement on the terms of the deal.

Beckham, who plays for US side LA Galaxy, wants to stay fit during the MLS close-season and is set to return to the US in March for the new season.

Beckham, who has 108 caps, is keen to keep his place in the national squad.

England manager Fabio Capello believes Beckham's signing is a good piece of business for AC Milan.

"Milan have made a good addition," said Capello, who coached the Rossoneri from 1991-96 and 1997-98.

"At Madrid I left him out of the squad because he had signed a contract with Los Angeles but he continued to come on the field and train and I put him back in the team.

"He is a very serious lad, very sensible, a professional. People think he is a playboy off the field, it's not true at all."

Former England captain Beckham had been a target of Milan before, in January 2007, but opted instead to move to Los Angeles from Real Madrid.

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has given the blessing for the midfielder to join up with his squad, and provide more competition for places.

Earlier this week LA Galaxy announced they have postponed their December tour of Australia because of Beckham's impending move to Italy.

LA Galaxy had been due to face the Queensland Roar on 11 December in Brisbane but will rearrange the fixture for a later date, yet to be confirmed.

"We were not in a position to absolutely guarantee David Beckham's availability," said Galaxy's business operations president Tom Payne.

"To avoid disappointment for the fans it was decided to postpone this game."

However, the Galaxy will still play a 6 December fixture against an Oceania All-Star team in Auckland, New Zealand.

Beckham scored against Sydney FC last November, when the Galaxy previously toured Australia.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder is hoping that a move to Milan will boost his chances of selection in the national squad.

Source: BBCi

Beckham move disrupts LA Galaxy tour

2008-10-29T18:38:00.002Z

LA Galaxy have postponed their December tour of Australia due to David Beckham's impending move to AC Milan.

Beckham is set to join the Italian club on loan in January so is unlikely to risk injury for a friendly match against the Queensland Roar.

"We were not in a position to absolutely guarantee David Beckham's availability," Galaxy's business operations president Tom Payne said.

"To avoid disappointment for the fans it was decided to postpone this game."

LA Galaxy had been due to face the Queensland Roar on 11 December in Brisbane but have now postponed the fixture for a later date, yet to be confirmed.

However, the Galaxy will still play a 6 December fixture against an Oceania All Star team in Auckland, New Zealand.

Beckham, 33, scored against Sydney FC last November, when the Galaxy previously toured Australia.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder is hoping that a move to Milan will boost his chances of selection in the national squad.

Source: BBCi

Beckham's Milan move stalls over £500k wage bill

2008-10-29T18:33:00.002Z

AC Milan and the Los Angeles Galaxy are at loggerheads about David Beckham's proposed loan to the Italian club.

The Galaxy want Milan to pay Beckham's Major League Soccer salary for the two months he will spend with them - about £500,000.

MLS commissioner Don Garber said: "You can tell that I'm frustrated. There's been incredible noise and, when it comes to David Beckham, incredible excitement.

"People don't understand what’s going on here. He is not being transferred and the stories that he is not going to come back are ridiculous.

"We have loaned players out in the past during the off-season many times. It's part of the game. Milan want him for two months because they know it's better than not having him at all.

"But we're only willing to do it if it’s on our terms and if it's satisfactory to the Galaxy. If not, it won't be approved by us."

Garber refused to discuss the financial details but added: "It seems to me that David should be applauded.

"If he believes it's better for him to go and train as opposed to going on vacation with his family, we will be supportive. This is about him being match fit for the national team and fully fit for the Galaxy."

Soirce: Daily Mail

Match Report: LA Galaxy 2 - 2 FC Dallas

2008-10-26T23:31:00.007Z

Los Angeles Galaxy 2 - 2 FC Dallas
MLS League

LA Galaxy: Wicks, Franklin, Valentin (Jordan 54), Randolph, Klein, Pires , Beckham , Donovan, Lewis, Buddle , Gordon (McDonald 46) (Vanney 90+3),
Subs Not Used: Cronin, Jazic, Roberts, Tudela

Sent Off: Pires 40 (Serious foul play)
Booked: Buddle, Beckham,
Goals: Buddle 21, Donovan 79

FC Dallas: Sala , Moor, Davino, Pitchkolan , Serioux (Dello-Russo 67), Wagner, Rhine (Wileman 58), Guarda, Sikora (Rocha 64), Cooper, Cunningham,
Subs Not Used: Avila, Burse, Oduro, Watson

Sent Off: Pitchkolan 49 (2nd Caution)
Booked: Pitchkolan, Serioux, Sala
Goals: Moor 34, Sikora 39

Attendance: 27,000

Referee: Tim Weyland

Read the full match report on the LA Galaxy website

Beckham's Tattoo

2008-10-26T20:20:00.003Z

Milan-bound Beckham makes MLS vow

2008-10-25T15:26:00.004Z

David Beckham says he would be "honoured" to join AC Milan on loan but insists his long-term future remains in America with Los Angeles Galaxy.

The 33-year-old is expected to agree a loan deal shortly as he bids to maintain his fitness for England duty.

"AC Milan is one of the biggest clubs in the world," said Beckham.

"It doesn't mean I'm leaving the States - I'm still very committed to being a Galaxy player. I came to the Galaxy to win trophies and I want to do that."

The former England captain is one appearance short of matching Bobby Moore's 108-cap record for an outfield England player.

He has been warned by England boss Fabio Capello that any inactivity over the MLS off-season would result in his likely omission from the next squad.

Beckham said: "One of the reasons I want to train and play in Milan for a few months is the fact that the MLS season doesn't run as long as the European season and my body is programmed to actually not have that amount of time off.

"I've been lucky enough to play with one of the biggest clubs in England and one of the biggest clubs in Spain, now I'm being given the chance to play with one of the biggest clubs in Italy.

"They've got Kaka, Ronaldinho, Seedorf and also a player with one of the best records in football, in (Paolo) Maldini.

"To be on the pitch and the training field and get experience with those players is a big honour."

But Beckham insisted he was "committed" to the MLS.

"The MLS is in a great position at the moment. My hope for the season coming with the Galaxy is to win trophies. That is a big part of why I'm here," he said.

Beckham signed a five-year contract with MLS in 2007 and is coming to the end of his second season in America, with the 2009 campaign due to kick off in March.

He is due to play for LA Galaxy - who had previously insisted he would not be able to move to another club on loan during their close season - in two exhibition matches in Australia and New Zealand in December.

But he could join Milan in January and would be eligible to play for them in Serie A and the Uefa Cup.

The possibility of Beckham spending time in Serie A has already been met with approval by a host of Milan stars, including Andriy Shevchenko and Filippo Inzaghi as well as the coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Ex-Chelsea forward Shevchenko said: "We would all be happy if he arrives."

His strike partner Inzaghi added: "I would really like it if Beckham came to give us a hand to win. He will certainly get a big welcome."

Ancelotti described his potential arrival as "very pleasing news".

"He is a serious lad, a professional and these are all positive signs. Beckham is a great football player and can play anywhere, in the middle or on the wing."

Source: BBCi

Sir Alex insists Beckham making good move

2008-10-25T15:19:00.001Z

Sir Alex Ferguson believes David Beckham will be making a good move if he joins AC Milan on loan.

Beckham is expected to join the Italian giants on loan in an attempt to prolong his England career, and Ferguson thinks a Milan move will be beneficial.

"It is hardly a surprise," said the Manchester United manager, who sold Beckham to Real Madrid in 2003.

"Going to the United States does not get you the kind of football he is used to. It is not the right level of football, therefore coming back into the mainstream of the game is not a surprise."

Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko meanwhile welcomed the news that Beckham could join the club.

He said: "He is a great professional and he would come to play at a high level, which is clearly a sign that he wants to be considered for the national team."

Source: Daily Mail

Milan confident of Beckham switch

2008-10-24T16:43:00.003Z

David Beckham's negotiations to join AC Milan on loan in January are "going really well" according to the Italian club's technical director, Leonardo.

Beckham, 33, hopes a short-term deal will help him stay fit for England duty with Los Angeles Galaxy's Major League Soccer season ending this weekend.

"I think it is a real possibility for us," Leonardo told BBC Radio 5 Live.

Beckham's agent Simon Oliveira and MLS commissioner Don Garber both stressed any move would only be for two months.

"Nothing is confirmed yet, but the intention is to go to AC Milan on loan for January and February," Oliveira said. "He would be going there with the view to keeping fit and being available for selection for England. The idea is he then goes back to the Galaxy to join up with their pre-season in March.

"He will not be joining AC Milan permanently. He had a five-year contract with the Galaxy and has three years left and every intention of fulfilling that."

Garber confirmed that discussions have taken place between Milan and the Galaxy over the possibility of a short-term loan agreement, although the news came as a surprise to Galaxy general manager and head coach Bruce Arena.

"On the surface it sounds like an odd proposition, I don't see where that benefits MLS or the Galaxy," Arena said.
"I would think the position that the Galaxy are in, that we're rebuilding our team and trying to have a successful year, it would seem very odd to me to be loaning out our top players."

Beckham signed a five-year contract with MLS in 2007 and is coming to the end of his second season in America, with the 2009 campaign due to kick off in March.

Leonardo added: "We tried to sign Beckham two or three years ago. We had a good relationship with him then and that has been maintained.

"It is about understanding his situation at Galaxy and that he has this time free to play and train. We are thinking about his needs in terms of practice and playing. He needs to continue with that. It is very important to him.

"If he has the opportunity to be with a team like AC Milan, it is something very positive. He is a very good man and the move will work for everybody."

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, who needs two more appearances to eclipse Bobby Moore as England's most-capped outfield player with 108, is eager to stay in contention for his country during the MLS close season.

England coach Fabio Capello has made it clear he will only select players who are active and in form.

Beckham is due to play for LA Galaxy - who had previously insisted he would not be able to move to another club on loan during their close season - in a series of exhibition matches in Australia and New Zealand in December.

But he could then join Milan's stellar squad, which includes Brazilians Ronaldinho, Kaka and Alexandre Pato, as well as Italian internationals Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso, in January.

Beckham would be eligible to play for Milan both domestically in Serie A and in the Uefa Cup.

Vice-president Adriano Galliani has said that Beckham's arrival would be "something different and intriguing".

Coach Carlo Ancelotti has also welcomed the prospect, suggesting Beckham could play a similar role to Andrea Pirlo as a creative, deep-lying midfielder.

"For me, it will be a pleasure," Ancelotti said. "Beckham is a serious athlete, a great professional. If he'll be available for us, we'll be very happy."

If the move goes ahead Beckham will become the sixth post-war British player to turn out for Milan, following in the footsteps of Englishmen Jimmy Greaves, Ray Wilkins, Luther Blissett and Mark Hateley, and former Scotland striker Joe Jordan.

If it falls through, Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has hinted he may try to persuade Beckham to return to the Premier League.

"If he doesn't go to Milan maybe I'll try to sign him myself," Redknapp said. "He would be a great loan for anybody.

"I haven't made an enquiry but it has crossed my mind. Maybe I'll try if it doesn't happen with Milan. David is still a great player, and you can't tell me he wouldn't be a great benefit to our Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe with his crossing.

"The fact is he is still a top player and wants to play. And I'm sure we wouldn't be the only ones interested if he didn't go to Milan. They would be queueing up."

Source: BBCi

Beckham to join AC Milan on loan

2008-10-22T17:19:00.002Z

David Beckham has agreed to move to AC Milan on loan in January, the Italian club has told BBC Sport.

The England midfielder, 33, plays for Los Angeles Galaxy, whose Major League Soccer season ends this weekend.

Speaking on Wednesday morning, Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said: "Beckham has chosen Milan. He'll stay here in Milan on loan for a few months.

"Our squad is ultra-competitive and it will remain this way but Beckham is something different and intriguing."

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, who needs two more appearances to eclipse Bobby Moore as England's most-capped outfield player with 108, is eager to stay in contention for his country during the MLS close season.

However, England coach Fabio Capello has made it clear he will only select players who are active and in form.

Hence, says BBC Radio 5 Live football correspondent Jonathan Legard, Beckham's move to Italy.

"Now he's involved again in the England set-up at the age of 33 under Capello, he's clearly determined to make the most of it and knows that the MLS close season will do nothing for his fitness or sharpness," stated Legard.

"He's not started a competitive international in 16 months and you wonder how shocked he was when Capello made it clear he wasn't going to be considered for the Spain friendly next February."

Former England midfielder Ray Wilkins, who spent almost three seasons with AC Milan in the mid-1980s, told the BBC News Channel that Beckham had made a smart move by heading for the San Siro.

"He's going to an extremely professional club where he will be able to maintain the correct fitness level that it will take to keep his England place," commented Wilkins, who is now assistant coach at Chelsea.

"l am sure Fabio Capello is actually rubbing his hands together hearing this bit of news. David still has a lot to offer for our national side and going to Milan is a very positive and correct step."

Blackburn manager Paul Ince, who had a spell with Milan's city rivals Inter during his playing career, believes Beckham still has plenty to offer on the pitch.

"His quality with the ball is the best I have ever witnessed. He is an inspirational player, he has been great for English football, he's an ambassador and a really good friend.

"It will be interesting to see how he gets on with the language but he can call me for a few tips."

The 2009 Major League Soccer season is set to start in April, so Beckham's loan move will only be short-term.

In the meantime, he is expected to play for LA Galaxy - who had previously insisted that Beckham would not be able to move to another club on loan during their close season - in a series of exhibition matches in Australia and New Zealand in December.

He will then join Milan's stellar squad, which includes Brazilians Ronaldinho, Kaka and Alexandre Pato, as well as Italian internationals Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso.

Milan are expected to officially confirm the loan move on Friday but coach Carlo Ancelotti has already made it clear he would welcome Beckham's arrival.

"For me, it will be a pleasure. Beckham is a serious athlete, a great professional," he said. "If he'll be available for us, we'll be very happy."

Beckham would be eligible to play for Milan both domestically in Serie A and in the Uefa Cup.

Source: BBCi

Beckham may train in Italy

2008-10-20T19:04:00.002Z

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said David Beckham would be welcome after media reported that the Los Angeles Galaxy player might train with the Serie A club when the long MLS close season starts next month.

'If Beckham wanted to train with us, it wouldn't be a problem for me,' Ancelotti told a news conference, adding that Milan had tried to sign the England midfielder in the past.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid player fears for his national team place and he requires just two more caps would take him past Bobby Moore as England's most capped outfield player.

Beckham has 107 caps but manager Fabio Capello is likely to take a dim view of the 33-year-old's lack of football if he doesn't move to Europe.

Ancelotti was echoing AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani who said last week he would be happy for Beckham if he wanted to train with the Italian club this winter.

Galliani said: 'If Beckham wants to come here and train with us I am certain there won't be any problems. I don't know what his intentions are but he's welcome here.'

Last year Beckham trained with Arsenal during the Major League Soccer close season.

Source: Daily Mail

Beckham: Most Hated Celeb Accent

2008-10-20T18:59:00.002Z

David Beckham's Cockney twang is Britain's most hated celebrity accent, a survey says.

Only slightly less disliked are Gordon Brown's brogue and Coleen Rooney's Liverpudlian lilt.

Singer Lilly Allen joined fellow Londoners like Amy Winehouse in the blacklist, along with Charlotte Church's Welsh accent, Ozzy Osbourne's Birmingham twang and Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles' Leeds accent.

However, it was better news for the north-east, according to the 3,000-strong poll commissioned by hotel chain Travelodge.

The Geordie accents of pop singer Cheryl Cole and TV presenters Ant and Dec headed the poll for the nation's favourite celebrity accents.

Other popular regional accents included Bolton comic Peter Kay, Northern Irish actor James Nesbitt and Fife-born presenter Edith Bowman.

The survey also discovered Britons have a better grasp of foreign languages than their own regional expressions.

For example, more people were able to explain the meaning of piazza (Spanish for square) than the Liverpudlian "scran", meaning food, and the Cornish expression "oggies", meaning pies.

Greg Dawson, from Travelodge, said: "Regional accents - whether you love them or hate them - are as diverse as ever in Britain.

"But it seems we have something of a national communication problem on our hands, as many Brits simply don't understand some of the UK's most loved regional dialects."

Source: Sky.com

Beckham set to equal Moore caps

2008-10-19T16:00:00.003Z

Fabio Capello has hinted David Beckham will equal World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore's 108-cap tally by starting next month's friendly against Germany.

Beckham, 33, has failed to start any of England's last four competitive games.

And the LA Galaxy midfielder has been criticised by some for picking up 'cheap' caps for his country.

But the England manager said: "Beckham might have played five minutes against Belarus but, for the next game, it is possible he might play all the game."

Beckham overtook Sir Bobby Charlton's tally of 106 caps when he came on as a substitute in the closing stages against Belarus on Wednesday.

Capello maintains the former England captain still has a role to play in the England set-up for the foreseeable future, although he may not pick the midfielder for February's friendly with Spain as it would be the close season in the MLS.

"For the game against Spain, if he is not playing, he will not be in the squad," Capello explained.

"He is good for the group. This is important. In fact, this is very important - his influence.

"He knows everything. He transmits confidence in the other players. This is very important for the group.

"I have to choose the first XI and at the moment I choose Theo Walcott and Shaun Wright-Phillips who are playing well."

The former Real Madrid boss added that he did not know how many caps Beckham had accumulated, saying: "For me, it is not interesting to record everything.

"It is not in my mind. My mind is the victory, the game, the best 11. I don't think about it.

"Does Beckham deserve to be in the company of Charlton and Moore? I don't know. I don't know how many games they played."

Meanwhile, Capello is unsure whether England will have the same energy and superior fitness levels when they resume their World Cup qualifying campaign against Ukraine in April.

He added: "It is frustrating to now have six months without a competitive game but we knew this.

"We have been lucky because we have played two games twice. Some have only played three matches.

"We have to wait a lot now. At the moment we are in very good physical condition because we always play better in the second half of games because the other teams play strong and press a lot.

"In the last 20 minutes, they are competed out and we are strong. Whether we will be the same physical condition in April, I don't know."

Source: BBCi

Beckham hails impact of Capello

2008-10-16T20:59:00.002Z

England midfielder David Beckham says the team is brimming with confidence under Fabio Capello.

The Italian coach has guided England to the top of their World Cup qualifying group with four straight wins.

And ex-skipper Beckham said: "It is definitely the most confident the team has been for a long time.

"I am enjoying the qualifying games and honoured to be involved in a team that's now doing so well and that's playing some great football."

England's 3-1 win in Belarus made it their best ever start to a qualifying campaign.

It is a far cry from England's dismal failure to qualify for Euro 2008 under previous boss Steve McClaren.

The 33-year-old Beckham has come off the bench in all four qualifying games so far.

But the Los Angeles Galaxy star says he is enjoying being part of Capello's squad, who he played under at Real Madrid.

"There's a manager now that knows how to win, not just at Wembley but away from home," he said. "He's very excited about the World Cup - and it's great to be involved in that.

"I worked with him at Madrid for a year so I knew what he is like as a manager and a person. I know what he expects from players and he gets the best out of them.

"There's a seriousness but that has to be there because you are playing for England and on such a big stage.

"He has installed that back into the team and it's important that it stays there because we are getting the right results and we are getting everything we need."

Beckham earned his 107th cap when he was a late substitute for Wayne Rooney in Minsk on Wednesday.

One more appearance for England will see him match Sir Bobby Moore's record for an outfield player.

But the former Manchester United midfielder says the whole squad is totally focused on maintaining their recent success, one game at a time.

"Things are looking bright, though we are still only four games into the new campaign. We are not going to get carried away," he added.

"We will be professional and enjoy each game and hopefully it continues. It's about time the country and the fans had something to look forward to."

Source: BBCi

FIFA World Cup 2010 Qualification Table

2008-10-15T22:24:00.001Z

Group 6

	TEAM	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS

1	ENGLAND	4	4	0	0	11	12
2	Croatia	4	2	1	1	4	7
3	Ukraine	3	2	1	0	3	7
4	Belarus	3	1	0	2	-1	3
4	Kazahkstan	4	1	0	3	-6	3
4	Andorra	4	0	0	4	-11	0
Table standings correct as of 15 October 2008

Match Report: Belarus 1 - 3 England

2008-10-15T21:29:00.004Z

Belarus 1 - 3 England
Group 6 World Cup 2010 Qualifier

Belarus: Zhevnov, Verkhovtsov, Filipenko, Omelyanchuk, Molosh, Kulchy, Sitko, Putsilo (Rodionov 67), Stasevich (Viacheslav Hleb 90), Kutuzov (Strakhanovich 77), Bulyga.
Subs Not Used: Veremko, Korytko, Pavlov, Sosnovskiy.

Booked: Putsilo.
Goals: Sitko 28.

England: James, Brown, Ferdinand, Upson, Bridge, Barry, Lampard, Gerrard, Walcott (Wright-Phillips 68), Rooney (Beckham 87), Heskey (Crouch 70).
Subs Not Used: Carson, Johnson, Lescott, Defoe.

Goals: Gerrard 11, Rooney 50, 74.

Attendance: 32,000.

Referee: Terje Hauge (NOR)

Read the full match report on the BBCi website

Match Report: England 5 - 1 Kazakhstan

2008-10-11T21:55:00.004Z

England 5 - 1 Kazakstan
Group 6 World Cup 2010 Qualifier

England: James, Brown, Cole, Ferdinand, Upson, Gerrard, Barry (Wright-Phillips 45), Lampard, Walcott (Beckham 79), Heskey, Rooney (Defoe 86).
Subs Not Used: Carson, Johnson, Bridge, Crouch.

Goals: Ferdinand 52, Kuchma 65 og, Rooney 77, 86, Defoe 90.

Kazakhstan: Mokin, Kirov (Sabalakov 85), Kuchma, Kislitsyn, Nusserbayev, Skorykh, Ostapenko (Maltsev 76), Baltiyev, Ibrayev, Kukeyev, Logvinenko.
Subs Not Used: Morev, Nurdauletov, Vorotnikov, Maxim Azovskiy, Beissenov.

Goals: Kukeyev 68.

Attendance: 89,107

Referee: Paul Allaerts

Read the full match report on the BBCi website

Big Picture: England Training

2008-10-09T01:51:00.002Z

Match Report: Columbus Crew 1 - 0 LA Galaxy

2008-10-05T12:25:00.007Z

Columbus Crew 1 - 0 Los Angeles Galaxy
MLS League

Columbus Crew: Hesmer, O'Rourke, Iro, Marshall, Padula, Gaven (Ekpo 69), Rogers, Carroll , Evans, Moreno, Barros Schelotto (Noonan 61).
Subs Not Used: Garey, Gruenebaum, Hendrickson, Miglioranzi, Oughton

Booked: Carroll
Goals: Moreno 43

LA Galaxy: Saunders, Klein, Franklin, Roberts (Gordon 81), Vanney, Beckham , Franchino (Jordan 69), Vagenas , Lewis, Donovan, Buddle.
Subs Not Used: Jazic, McDonald, Randolph, Valentin, Wicks

Booked: Vagenas, Beckham, Jordan

Attendance: 22,685

Referee: Jorge Gonzalez

Read the full match report on the LA Galaxy website

Match Report: Chicago Fire 3 - 1 LA Galaxy

2008-09-27T21:13:00.004Z

Chicago Fire 3 - 1 Los Angeles Galaxy
MLS League

Chicago Fire: Busch, Prideaux, Conde, Soumare , Segares, Mapp (Banner 79), Thorrington, Blanco (Gutierrez 89), Pause, Rolfe (King 84), McBride.
Subs Not Used: Frankowski, Herron, Marmol, Noble

Booked: Soumare
Goals: Rolfe 13 & 59, Blanco 57

LA Galaxy: Wicks, Klein, Franklin, Roberts , Jazic, Beckham, Donovan, Vanney (McDonald 80), Lewis, Gordon (Vagenas 63), Buddle (Jordan 77).
Subs Not Used: Allen, Franchino, Saunders, Valentin

Booked: McDonald, Roberts
Goals: Lewis 35

Attendance: 20,156

Referee: Alex Prus

Read the full match report on the LA Galaxy website

David Beckham Calendar 2009

2008-09-22T18:31:00.005Z

The David Beckham calendar for 2009 has had some content leaked. The images seem to be taken from his recent Men's Health photo shoot (which did not feature on the blog because we weren't quite sure we liked it!)

Still if you love all things Beckham you can order the calendar from Amazon.co.uk

Source: Amazon.co.uk/Denden/Famousmales

Match Report: LA Galaxy 5 - 2 DC United

2008-09-21T12:25:00.005Z

Los Angeles Galaxy 5 - 2 DC United
MLS League

LA Galaxy: Wicks, Klein, Franklin, Roberts, Jazic (Franchino 87), Beckham , Donovan, Vanney (McDonald 80), Lewis, Buddle, Gordon (Vagenas 62),
Subs Not Used: Allen, Jordan, Saunders, Valentin

Booked: Beckham (Dissent), Gordon
Goals: Donovan 23,35 & 90+2, Gordon 38, Vagenas 81

DC United: Crayton, Namoff, Burch , McTavish, Martinez (Cordeiro 79), Fred, Quaranta (Dyachenko 83), Simms , Guerrero, Khumalo, Emilio (Doe 87).
Subs Not Used: Kirk, Thompson, Wells, Zaher

Sent Off: Burch 63 (Violent Conduct)
Booked: Simms
Goals: McTavish 02, Khumalo 48

Attendance: 27,000

Referee: Terry Vaughn

Read the full match report on the LA Galaxy website