FOOTBALL : England midfielder David Beckham hopes his return loan move to AC Milan will be the boost that helps him realise his World Cup dream.
England midfielder David Beckham hopes his return loan move to AC Milan will be the boost that helps him realise his World Cup dream.
Under pressure from England coach Fabio Capello to stay sharp by playing at the highest level, the Los Angeles Galaxy star will arrive at the San Siro in January.
“I needed to give myself the best possible opportunity to go to the World Cup and to play on loan for Milan will help me to do that,” said Beckham. “I really enjoyed my previous experience at Milan and I can’t wait to see the team and the staff again.”
Both Beckham and the Italian club are excited about the reunion, with the 34-year-old having helped the San Siro outfit clinch a top-four finish last season to earn a place in the Champions League qualifying stages.
“David Beckham and Milan, Milan and David Beckham. The relationship is serious, the handshake is solid,” read a statement on the club’s official website, www.acmilan.com.
“The arrival of the English champion on December 20 last year at (Milan’s) Malpensa airport was just the first step of a beautiful adventure, that continued with reciprocal satisfaction.”
Milan coach Leonardo predicted at the weekend that Beckham’s return would bring a further touch of quality and experience to his side.
“I consider Beckham as if he had always been here because he has only been away for six months,” said Leonardo, who acted as assistant to Carlo Ancelotti last season.
“He will be a player that will contribute a lot not only on the pitch but also inside the squad, as the players like him infinitely.”
