Milan draw, but Beckham wins of debut

Updated on: 13 January,2009 08:22 AM IST |
PA Sport |

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed David Beckham's attitude and intelligence had won him a place in the starting XI for Sunday's game at Roma.

David Beckham. pic/afp

Beckham, who is on a short-term loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy, had been expected to start on the bench but played 89 minutes of the 2-2 draw Milan's first Serie A game since the winter break.

"He did well," said Ancelotti, who also fielded Beckham in a recent friendly against Hamburg. "I chose Beckham to start because he proved in recent days to be a very intelligent player and serious. The appearance against Roma is a small reward for him because he worked very hard and has adapted well to the team.

"This was only his second game with us and he will improve. I believe everyone is happy to have Beckham here."

One of those delighted to be playing alongside Beckham is Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf. "We have to compliment him," he said.

"He has done a good job and he grew in the game. He still needs to improve but I think he can be very satisfied with what he has done after two months of not playing."

Roma stand-in captain Daniele De Rossi suggested Milan had made a shrewd move in capturing the 33-year-old. "From a media standpoint Beckham is impressive," De Rossi said.

"He is a nice guy, has a beautiful wife, has won so many trophies in his career and perhaps this penalises him as a player although I believe he has the feet and the determination."

Beckham, meanwhile hailed Sunday's double goalscorer Alexandre Pato of Brazil. "I really like Pato. I have seen him in training and on the pitch. He is only 19 years of age and I think he can become one of the greatest players in the world," he said.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels