Beckham returns to action for LA Galaxy
One of the most celebrated footballers of the modern times, former England captain David Beckham returned to action for LA Galaxy on Wednesday after a long layoff due to an ankle injury.
The 35-year-old midfielder, who is rated amongst the most renowned footballers in international football, is not expected to return to top grade football until mid-September.
The former Manchester United star sustained the injury to his Achilles tendon, which he ruptured in March while playing for Italian club AC Milan.
Subsequently, the mid-fielder missed England’s World Cup campaign but was a part of the think tank for the tournament as a consultant. It was in South Africa where the Lions were beaten by a rampaging German team in the second round of Africa’s first ever soccer World Cup.
"People talked about the coaching role I had with England. But you know if was never a coaching role," said Beckham. "It was something that was put out there. But I was literally just being there with the team. I might have been in the coach’s colours but I definitely wasn't a coach."
The mid-fielder emphasized that the he has no interest in coaching or managing a team after he quits playing.
The end of his international career is around the corner, as English coach Fabio Capello told English media that the former captain was ‘probably a bit too old’ to play for the national team.
Even if he hangs his international boots, he will remain one of the most influential players in modern history. Beckham is credited for promoting the game around the world with his mega star image.
He is England's most capped outfield player, having represented his nation in 115 matches, and remains a close second behind goalkeeper Peter Shilton, who started his career in 1966.
Known for his powerful free kicks, Becks scored 17 goals for his team in a glittering career. The mid-fielder told reporters that his concentration for the time being remains regaining his fitness.
He added that he had no plans to return to AC Milan where he damaged his ankle.
"No. The focus is the team and repairing my tendon. That's the biggest thing for me," said Beckham. "Because I’ve been hitting it so hard for the last two years, every month, all year round. It's been obviously tough on my body. It's about getting back this season as soon as possible, playing the rest of the season."
The mid-fielder would be facing his team take on the likes of Thierry Henry, Rafael Marquez who will be appearing for New York Red Bulls on Saturday in their home town in New York City.
It remains to be seen if the mid-fielder returns to his best after his long layoff, given the nature of his injury. On the other hand, the statement by English team coach Fabio Capello is an indication that he might not be appearing again in national colours.
The Los Angeles Galaxy will be aiming to extract whatever is left of the aging superstar, who is arguably the richest footballer in the game.
Beckham’s fans will hope that they will be given one more opportunity to see the super star in action for the last time.
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