With the rumor mill having gone into overdrive in recent days with speculation that Becks might be going to move to Celtic, Spurs, Villa, Inter Milan or even a little known Israeli team - Macabbi Netanya, David Beckham has spoken out at a press conference yesterday to try and set the record straight. He says he has no intention of leaving Real Madrid during the current season. He also says that contract talks are not stalled . Read the story online here. and a transcript here. Photo's from the press conference are in the gallery and you can see a short clip from the press conference on the BBC site.

OK I'm confused and to prove I'm not deliberately leading anyone astray here, lol, let me explain. After I posted the news below in which I mentioned that Fabio Capello had said Becks couldn't walk based on this quote from Sportinglife.com

"I was very pleased with him the other day. I told him that he would leave the pitch with 20 minutes to go, but he did not want to," Capello said.

"He trains very seriously and I like that. Now he is injured and cannot walk."

I found an article and picture of Becks and Victoria Beckham smooching at Barcelona airport, Friday, that says David Beckham was on his way to do a new Pepsi Commercial (yay!). There are no crutches and he looks pretty mobile. So the plot thickens on the whole injury front? It's actually impossible under these circumstances to ascertain what the truth really is and any stab at it on my part might be wide of the mark, so I'll leave it to you to make up your own mind. As always, as Beckham fans I guess we just have to approach what we hear with caution.

David Beckham will miss Real Madrid's La Liga match against Gimnastica Tarragona because of a thigh strain according to one report and due to knee and groin injuries according to another. Fabio Capello has said that Becks can't walk at the moment so here's wishing him a speedy recovery! Full story here.

Also sorry but I missed a little news this week with the software problems I had, so for anyone who missed it, check out the kind comments from Ronaldinho supporting Becks here.

Philip Anschultz who owns the MLS team the LA Galaxy has reportedly confirmed that he will be offering Becks a contract story here.

Sorry, I had a little glitch with the interface I use to update the news but it's all fixed now! So I'll be getting the site back up to date over the weekend.

Becks did start the Copa del Rey match between Real Madrid and Ecija but unfortunately the match ended in a draw. There are a couple of photos from the match in the gallery.

The main news doing the rounds this week as I'm sure you know centers on speculation about David Beckham's future. There has been a lot of speculation that he will be sold to a premiership club in January, but Becks has said he wouldn't go back to the premiership unless he could go to Manchester United. However the Sun, ran the following article and I agree that there would be interest as clubs could negotiate an attractive agreement with a desperate Real Madrid - I'm just doubtful on whether or not David Beckham would agree to go to any of the interested clubs.

President Calderon at Real Madrid continues to insist that a contract extension will be signed, however, his credibility is a little suspect because he said he was sure a deal would be done in a couple of weeks er... more than a couple of weeks ago! Latest reports on this here.

Becks trained separately from the rest of the team because he picked up a niggle during Wednesday's match. There has been a strange pattern so far this season of reports that Becks has niggles or injuries or knocks and then in some instances we never hear any more in other cases like Wednesday what was reportedly a heavy knock, disappeared and now he has another niggle separating him from training with the team. I hope he is in good health and feeling fit and I hope the reports we are receiving are truthful. edited to add: It seems this was not a "niggle" as reported but is in fact an injury as Becks has pulled a muscle so I hope he feels better soon.

BBC Coverage of the latest quotes from Becks and Capello as well as the news that Becks was injured during the Barcelona game and will probably miss Wednesday's match as he missed training yesterday, is online here

The media coverage of the situation between David Beckham and Real Madrid continues and with each "quote" it seems more and more likey that Becks is getting ready to go. It is fast reaching the point from which there is no coming back, in fact with some of the press coverage one can't help but suspect it has already reached the point of no return.

Several people have left comments on the last post making some interesting points, thank you! There has been a lack of press conferences with Becks this season, I agree. I have also noticed a very concentrated "campaign" to promote Reyes by comparison. Naomi also mentions the financial/commercial machinations of the situation which do seem to leave Real Madrid in an almost embarrassing position. Surely when you have a player with the profile and skills of David Beckham you either sign a new contract sooner or if no mutually acceptable set of terms can be agreed upon, establish this fact in time to sell him. David Beckham expressed his surprise some time back that Real Madrid had let the situation run so long and I too am surprised that this could come to pass when you are talking about pretty substantial sums of money. However, it may benefit Becks so I'm pleased about that aspect.

I think people who think the comments about Manchester United are a sign he would like to return there, could be a little off the mark. I would personally love to see Becks return to United but I think that is a long shot and I'm sure Becks knows that too. No, the comments about Manchester United hint at the fact that Becks might be contemplating an exit from European football and perhaps as always happens at such times, is looking back now with more nostalgia and wants to clear up any possible misunderstandings and close the book on this part of his career before possibly going Stateside, having made his peace and righted any wrongs.



Capello's comments in the press today, will only add insult to injury. After all, Capello is implying that Becks is being selfish but that is incredibly unfair, Beckham is not saying he doesn't want what's best for the team of course he does, he is just saying, that he, David Beckham, loves to play. Professional footballers are on a clock, time ticks by and surely no one could begrudge Becks leaving for a club where he can play rather than wanting to stay where he will not be gauranteed more than a few minutes. There is nothing selfish or disrespectful in that, just a desire to be honest about the need to do what he loves. A mans gotta do, what a mans gotta do Becks, and we the fans will love you and support you all the way!

I think the next crucial event in what is now shaping up unfortunately to be a saga, will be the decision over salary caps in the MLS which will be announced next month. If the cap is lifted as almost all parties predict then any thoughts of going to an MLS team can be acted upon. I guess we will all have to wait and see -- Anna

It was a great result and I'm very happy that we won of course but I'm also a little sad because Becks only came on as a substitute with about 9 minutes left in the game. While I felt a lot of sympathy for him before because I knew he would prefer to start, his being a sub when he was bought on with 20 to 30 minutes of the game still remaining was not so bad, he could and did have an impact and a chance to feel like he made a contribution and was a part of things. I feel bringing him on so late in the game with the score at 2-0 will only add to his frustration and I thought his booking was indicative of that.

I think people get David Beckham wrong. I know, I'm in no position to judge, I don't know him. Still, I've always felt that David Beckham was a team man to the core, that he bleeds his teams colors. Some have accused him of being a show boat because of his celebrity status but Becks skill has never been as a scorer per se but instead as someone who serves others and sets them up to score. Some have accused him of being first to congratulate his team mates when they score because he wants his photo taken. Logic must surely dictate to even the most envious and petty of his critics, that for quite sometime now Becks has not suffered from any shortage of people willing to take his photo and what's more over a career spanning more than a decade he can be seen consistently, with the same look of euphoria on his face, congratulating his team mates in photo after photo. Some one give that man an Oscar or perhaps it might just be that David Beckham craves being a part of a team, not the limelight, but the simple joy of comraderie and genuine pleasure of being part of a successful team.

That is why I think David Beckham needs to leave Real Madrid. I say that with a heavy heart and I still feel a bit 50-50 about it. I just suspect David Beckham won't be happy in a team where he can't be a part of the team that goes into battle together, it is one thing to train together and to obviously want the best for the team as a substitute and I'm sure Becks does, of course but the satisfaction that comes from being part of a team and winning a match like the one today, can't be gotten from playing 9 minutes at the end. Will David Beckham be ecstatic for his team-mates? - yes. Will he feel any real personal sense of contribution and the satisfaction that comes with that? - probably not and at 31, he is still too young and too good to have to accept that. It is also hard to imagine how a player is supposed to put in a performance that will play him back into contention when afforded 9 minutes to do it in.

I don't want to sound all conspiracy theorist on it, I don't doubt their are genuine tactical decisions driving the team selection. However, I have noticed in recent weeks a decrease in pictures etc of David Beckham appearing on the Real Madrid website. Running this website I check Real Madrid's official site regularly and in all honesty I really started to feel like they were trying to change their marketing focus about four weeks ago. This may not be the case this is purely gut instinct. However, my hunch is that David Beckham and Real Madrid have had some issues that aren't just on the field. I mean what was Calderon's spate of verbal diarrhoea a couple of weeks ago all about? The club has certainly engaged in some interesting posturing in the media. *scratches head*

All we can do is watch this space but bottom line, David Beckham likes playing competitive football and perhaps he will be best off somewhere where he will be able to do that for more than 9 minutes of an important match. *cry* Many of you may think tis is a little premature and sure, I too hope he can convince Capello he deserves a bigger role but Becks has only started 1 of the last 7 games and Capello will be reluctant to change the present line-up that has won the last two games.

I don't know. I just wish him happiness and want him to do what will be best for him.

You know the drill, photos as they come in will go in the gallery.

Edit: Here's a story that has some new quotes from Becks on how unhappy he is to not be playing that really makes me even more convinced he will consider leaving Sid Lowe's column Also their is a story in The Sun saying that Becks will give it six more games - although nothing in the quotes from Becks actually says this outright. They also have a quote from Capello saying Becks is in his plans but he has been saying that and also talking about rotating players etc for weeks and it hasn't added up to much.

The Mail on Sunday carried the following quote from David Beckham today :-(

"Every day I feel sad and very frustrated as a footballer because I am not playing for my country or for my club," Beckham told the Mail on Sunday.

"Two more years on the bench would be very difficult. At the moment it is very difficult for me not playing."

He added: "I am not even thinking about retiring. When my heart and legs give in then that will be the time, but that is not the case now."

It is sad to read this, I hope Becks can play his way back into contention and that if he comes off the bench tonight that he has a blinder. He has had a tough few months and it must be hard to take so many knocks and keep standing but I have faith that he will bounce back! If anyone deserves some good luck it's Becks as this story about how he and Posh help others shows.

David Beckham is on the team sheet for todays match but with him missing Thursday's training and also with Real Madrid winning well in Bucharest, it is thought he will be a substitute for today's game for more on this and also some recent comments by Capello about Becks role within the team go here.

Also, there are a few photos of Brooklyn Beckham and his Mom arriving at Heathrow on their way back from Tokyo where Victoria was launching her jewellery range in the gallery

The Sun has the following story today with some lovely quotes:

THIERRY HENRY last night insisted David Beckham should play for England again.

Arsenal’s French superstar, a good friend of Beckham, was stunned when he discovered the Real Madrid midfielder was not in Steve McClaren’s plans.

Henry backed Sun readers who last week voted unanimously for Beckham to be brought back.

The Gunners skipper said: “Steve McClaren has a very difficult job. One of the most difficult football jobs in the world. But David is a great player and a great guy.

“I believe he still has so much to give England and it would be a shame if he does not get another chance.

“We are now quite close. People get him wrong as he is not showbiz. In fact, he reminds me of Zidane.

“You tell ZZ he is good and he looks away and says ‘OK, yeah, yeah.’ He is embarrassed and David is like that.”

The Daily Star has reported a rumor that David Beckham could be honored with a knighthood, full story here. That would be wonderful and truly deserved! I can't help but smile when I think of Becks playing his first game after being knighted, will the commentators refer to him as Sir Beckham? I can hear it now, ...a great cross from Sir Beckham, ...oh dear it looks like Sir Beckham could be booked for that challenge, ...Sir Beckham is trying to make some space ... etc etc. It has a certain je ne sais qua... n'est pas? :-)

David Beckham and Ruud Van Nistelrooy are on the cover of the current issue of the UEFA magazine. You can view the cover story and enlarge the accompanying picture here.

P.S. I have replaced most of todays tennis photos with slightly bigger versions and added some Hi-res pics to the gallery. Thanks to Just Jared

Seems Becks can't get enough of the tennis as he attended the Madrid Masters for the second day in a row! More photos in the gallery
He met with Andy Murray and watched the match between Murray amd Djokovic but Murray sadly lost. Murray thanked Becks during his post match interview, for his support:-

BECKHAM BOOST

The Scot said that he had been boosted, however, by talking to former England captain and Real Madrid player David Beckham, who had come to see him before the match.

"It was nice to see him as he is one of the biggest sporting icons ever and is so polite and humble. It's good to see the way he has handled all the attention and criticism when I'm not likely to get even a tenth of that in my career."

David Beckham missed training with Real Madrid because his tendonitis of the knee is playing up again. This puts him in doubt for Real Madrid's next match again Barcelona. We'll have to wait and see if he trains Friday.

Updated: Becks did train on Friday. Photos in the gallery.

Someone asked when the commercial that David Beckham is re-creating/spoofing will be shown. Sorry I forgot to put that info because I was so distracted by the thought of Becks in his Boxers :-) The BBC's Children in Need Appeal Night is November 17th, so it should go to air then!

David Beckham will be appearing on TV before then as he will play a part in the Pride of Britain Awards to be held on Nov 6 and televised on ITV1. Details here.

Just a quickie! There are a few photos of David Beckham at the tennis in Madrid today in the gallery I'll add more as they surface.

Yes there is a God! Yes she is a woman!

The original Levi's ad, in which a hunky young chap strips off down to his undies in a launderette, is to be recreated for the charity Children In Need.

In a move of unparalleled brilliance in the world of casting, David Beckham will play the hunky young chap and let me say as hunky a young chap as the original hunky young chap was, Becks out hunkys him in a big way!! Full story here.

The commercial will also feature Dot Cotton of Eastenders fame and be set to the same original music "Heard it through the grapevine"

Now that is something to look forward too! If you'd like to know why I'm carrying on like a lunatic (more so than usual) take a look at the original advert that Becks will be re-creating below. Who ever had this idea and made this happen - thank you on behalf of women children in need everywhere!



A new website www.dvbstyle.com is being launched by Victoria Beckham. The site will be launched October 30th but you can go to the site and register for updates now. In time the site will have a range of dvbstyle products more on this here. The first area that they are developing is DVB Eyewear by the looks of things. Which of course fits with the fact that Victoria Beckham already has her own range of sunglasses. It also really shows that the Beckhams would have needed to discontinue the relationship between David and the Police brand because of their own plans. The fact that Police sunglasses then came out and said what they did (details here) because they know the Beckhams will be competitors, is disgusting. So please don't buy Police brand and tell your friends and family to avoid them too. The best way to send a message to companies with these kinds of business ethics is to vote with your credit card and don't spend there!

Finally Jonathon Woodgate has repeated his backing for Becks and said that He thought Steve McClaren had made a mistake! He's in the ever-increasing majority there!! Comments here.

A good win for Real Madrid was a nice way for David Beckham to join the Champions League 100 club! His 100th appearance came in the 70th minute and although I'm sure he would have preferred to start, while Becks continues to have a role in every match that he is fit for, then he can continue to fight for a starting place. That is of course what he will do and we support him and love him just the same as starter or sub!

Champions League training and match photos are in the gallery

David Beckham Post match comments online here

Official match report and photos are online here.

Update The main stories in todays news are that Becks has thanked fans for supporting his recall to the England team after a Sun Poll showed 90% of fans would like to see him return to the squad, story here. He also has stated that he would like to stay at Real Madrid, but then he really isn't free to say anything else, which is not to say it isn't true, it's just really until a contract is signed, we won't know the situation.

Tom Cruise has suggested that Becks might have a future in acting story here. I would love to see Becks on the silver screen again!

Hi everyone - there are some new photos of Brooklyn and Victoria at Heathrow in the family gallery.

The following quotes from Becks were published by Revista de la Liga

(Source) Former captain David Beckham has rubbished suggestions that England's stars do not show enough desire to win matches when they are on international duty.

The 31-year-old Real Madrid midfielder has not figured for his country since Steve McClaren succeeded Sven-Goran Eriksson as head coach on August 1.

England's hopes of qualifying for Euro 2008 suffered a blow last week after McClaren's men followed up a lacklustre 0-0 draw at home to Macedonia with a 2-0 defeat in Croatia.

But Beckham has no concerns, despite England losing ground in Group E, telling reporters: "The players that I know in that team, the players that I've played with in that team and the players that were in the team, there are no worries about passion with any player putting on that England shirt.

"You want to win, you'll do anything to win. That's the way they played when I was in the team and that's why it was an honour to have some of those players in the same team as me, because the passion they showed and the work rate they showed, and the willingness to actually win games. Without a doubt, that was there."

Much has been made of Wayne Rooney's recent dip in form - the 20-year-old Manchester United hitman has not scored a competitive goal for his country since Euro 2004, but Beckham has no doubts that when he regains his match sharpness he will back to his world-beating best.

The former England skipper, who still hopes to return from the international wildnerness, added: "People talk about Wayne being in a bad patch but people also have to remember that he's missed quite a bit of the season - three or four weeks without playing the game. He might have trained but it's not the same as match-fitness and you need that."

Beckham is also calling for calm over England's faltering European Championship qualifying campaign, in which McClaren's men have taken just a point from their last two games.

He said: "It's hard to watch England without being in the team," said Beckham. "It's still hard and it will be until I'm back in there.

What people have to realise is there's going to be tough games, there's going to be good games, bad games, and it's been two tough games for them - one at Old Trafford where usually our record there is good. But we've got great players, we've got great talent in that team, good young talent."

If only Terry Butcher and some of the other former England players would show the same dignity when talking about the England team. Becks has more reason than most to be disillusioned but his loyalty is steadfast. He does suggest that he still hopes to regain his place. I hope that can happen for him because he really deserves it and what's more the team needs him!

There have been lots and lots of press (there always is about something!) about Becks halting contract talks. I've seen it, I just haven't posted it here because the story originated from The News of the World. I'd advise caution at the moment, rumors will continue to swirl, lets not worry about every single one until we know there is some substance.

Now good luck to us tonight!!!

Bummer. We lost and we didn't play well, there's really no way to avoid the truth of it. It was nice to have Becks back in the starting line-up but I wish the game could have gone differently. Official Match report and photos here.

First 20 photos from the match are in the gallery I'll replace them with better ones when the other photo agencies have them.

Photos from Sundays Training session are here.

Teamsheet for the match again Steau Bucharest is online here.

Update: Photos from the Real Madrid v Getafe match added to the gallery as they come in.

The England team received a huge piece of luck yesterday and took a massive step away from the "dark side". Whether Max Clifford quit or was pushed, and the spin doctor will be working his contacts to make sure we think he quit, the bottom line is Max Clifford's grubby little hands are no longer in the England pie. Story here.

It is side-splittingly funny to watch how this man is so professional that his parting shots all damage his client. He actually attacks McClaren for not having stood up to the FA, implying that he is gutless, also implying that despite the spin he is not leaving of his own free will - as most people going on their way voluntarily don't take a couple of shots on the way out the door. I feel zero sympathy for McClaren and the mess he finds himself in. McClaren bought this on himself.

The trouble is Max Clifford has given his "client" terrible advice, made appallingly ill-timed and unwise comments to the press that have undermined McClaren as more and more fans began to wonder why Clifford was in a place to even comment on issues of selection. Now it remains to be seen if McClaren will have the courage and the common sense to undo the damage and reverse some of the poor decisions such as omitting Becks from the squad, that he and his "advisors" have made.

Nevertheless this is great news and it's with a spring in my step and a song in my heart that I'm off to get my coffee :-)

England fans have been calling for Becks to be recalled and the ground swell of support for Becks must be causing Max Clifford and Steve McClaren some discomfort. Here are just a few of todays press reports about this

Source: Sporting Life
Headline: Wenger - England may need Beckham

Source: The Mirror
Headline: Bilic: You must call on Becks

Source: Tribal Football
Headline: Bosnich: Beckham never got on with McClaren at Man Utd

Source: The Sun
Headline: Calls for the return of Goldenballs

Source: UK Herald
Headline: Whatever next for England?

Source: The Telegraph
Headline: Beckham back in England spotlight

Source: Goal
Headline: Toothless England miss Canine Beckham

Source: Teamtalk
Headline: Harrison makes case for Beckham Recall

Source: CBBC
Headline: Fans call for Beckham Comeback.
This story also has a poll where you can vote to say you'd like Becks reinstated

The other good news of the day is that Becks has been confirmed as starting for Real Madrid against Getafe. Story here.

There's two new photos of David and Victoria Beckham leaving a Madrid Restaurant in the gallery

Update: Max Clifford has responded to the calls by fans to re-instate Becks. Why it must be asked, is a man who is supposed to purely have a role as a media advisor, holding forth on England selection policy and so many areas outside of his supposed sphere. I've said it before and will say it again, who is really in charge of the England team? Story here.

English fans were chanting this last night, after England lost to Croatia. For more on this View the Sun story. Radio Talkback was also full of England fans asking for David Beckham to be re-included in the England squad! There's also a good write up here.

I felt sorry for Paul Robinson and Gary Neville when the second goal was conceded in such a freak way! However, aside from that I was happy with the result. I have nothing against England or England's players but this result was necessary to expose McClaren and to make people question his tactical skills and his selection policy. Both of which have now been shown to be totally inadequate.

The next Euro 2008 qualifier is scheduled for March 2007, 5 months away. I am still doubtful that Becks will get a recall into the squad, as whilst the last two matches have been a debacle and shown McClaren up, it's not enough for him to lose his job. Although the media will be very critical of him and many of the fans have already begun to call for his head, he will be given further chances having only been in the job a couple of months. Whilst he remains as Manager a recall for Becks will be unlikely as it would be seen as a back down and McClaren will not want to suffer that loss of face.

They say you don't know what you've got till it's gone and last night many members of the media and some of the fans who had not already reached this conclusion following the draw with Macedonia, were reminded of everything David Beckham had done for his country. They remembered the courage and committment he always showed when wearing the shirt. They chanted his name. They should have had the sense to chant it back in August, when Becks, so often the difference between winning and losing for England, was exiled and no truly adequate reason provided as to why. It may have been 10 weeks late but last night David Beckham was remembered with the respect he was due.

Some elements of the media that are not entirely in Mr Clifford's pocket may at last ask for a real footballing reason to be provided for why Beckham has been exiled. I have been amazed to witness how a decison wholly political in nature could be made and then go unquestioned by the media. It was obvious from the media's wide spread praise for McClaren's "brave and decisive action" that they were quite happy about it and so none of the difficult questions were asked. It is almost comical to watch the same media, and even the same columnists perform acrobatic feats of dexterity, distancing themselves from McClaren and lavishing praise upon David Beckham's crossing and dead-ball skills. Skills he possessed in abundance 10 weeks ago. The fact they can do so with a straight-face and believing that they have any credibility left is a fascinating spectacle. If they think for one second they are coming out of this looking any better than McClaren they should think again. They're a joke.

I can't write any more because I have to go and make a quick phone call to Sydney FC, to a bloke by the name of Terry Butcher. I have four little words for Terry. "I told you so".

For David Beckham I have three little words. "England misses you".

Today's main story is that President Calderon at Real Madrid, has indicated that the club has competition for David Beckham's signature but is still very hopeful that he will sign an extension. I wonder who the suitors are? Perhaps some american clubs?

MADRID, Oct 11 (Reuters) - Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon remains hopeful that David Beckham will sign a two-year contract extension despite admitting that other teams are interested in signing the former England captain.

"Beckham is the sort of player that has a lot of suitors and I know that he has a lot of offers because he is a key player in many ways, but especially from the sporting point of view," Calderon was quoted as saying on the Real Madrid Web site on Wednesday.

"I think he will sign for two more years, that is to say that he will stay here for this season and two more, but we will have to see if he wants to stay or not.

"I've spoken to (coach Fabio) Capello about Beckham ... and Capello has told me that he is counting on Beckham and has therefore asked me to extend his contract and that's what we are trying to do."

I will do a bigger update once the match with croatia is over. The Croatian coach had the following to say to the press

Bilic has also criticised his opposite number for his handling of David Beckham, who he still feels is one of the world's best players.

"As far as Beckham is concerned, I would prefer not to interfere in McClaren's decision," said Bilic.

"I'm sure he had a lot of sleepless nights before making his decision whether to put him back in or not.

"Beckham was and is a great player. Sure he's good-looking, brings in a lot of advertising and has a super wife, but he's one of the best crossers in the world.

"One move from Beckham can decide the game, and he's one of the best players in the world. But I'm sure McClaren has his reasons."

Just one more reason for me to like my newly adopted team. Go Croatia!!

Are you familiar with the song "What a difference a day makes - 24 little hours - Brought the sun and the flowers - where there used to be rain"? I find myself humming it this morning as I read the press :-)

Source: The Telegraph
Headline: Beckham still has role to play

When Steve McClaren discarded Beckham, it was applauded as a decisive piece of management, although it had more to do with politics and wanting the whole wagon train of publicity that comes with Beckham's presence out of the England camp.

But all decisions, especially bold ones, come at a cost. Whatever his other failings that were exposed in Germany, Beckham is still the best deliverer of a cross or a dead ball available to McClaren. His free kicks were responsible for two England victories in the World Cup.

Source: Tribal Football
Headline: Gazza backs Becks for England recall

Paul Gascoigne has backed calls for Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham to be recalled by England after Saturday's poor 0-0 draw with Macedonia.
Three Lions legend Gazza reckons the Real Madrid man's experience would be a huge help in Croatia on Wednesday

Source: The Herald UK
Headline: Time for a Rethink over beckham

...there is mounting pressure on McClaren to reconsider his decision to banish Beckham.
Although the door has never been officially closed on the former England captain, McClaren has neither run the rule over Beckham in Spain this season or expressed any desire to have him back.

It was impossible not to think of Beckham as Gerrard failed to deliver on the right flank while Stewart Downing continues to flounder on the left. Not until Shaun Wright-Phillips was thrown into the mix in the second half, did England show any real pace or vision.
Beckham has never made a habit of getting past defenders but there is still no-one better equipped to deliver the ball into the box.

Source: Sporting Life
Headline: Beckham offers McClaren an Option

There is little wonder England fans were talking about David Beckham on the way home from Old Trafford.

In many ways, Beckham is the ideal man to turn to in a tight corner like this.

The zip may be draining from his legs but he has bags of courage and has proved he can lift his game in the face of intimidation.

He has always been ready to stand up and fight for his country and is always capable of producing a goal from a set-piece.

Make sure you click on the source to read the full story, and make sure you read the full story from The Herald, it is a story that is 2 months late in the writing but it's good to see someone has put the obvious in print at last.

The draw for the kings cup is out view here.

I have added the rest of the Bye Bye Becks DVD Caps, there are over 100 spread over 5 pages. View here.

I am loving the press coverage England and McClaren are getting following their nil all draw to Macedonia at Old Trafford. The team was booed off! One could be tempted to remind all those who have made Sven and particularly Becks, a scapegoat for England's failed ambitions, that both were conspicuously absent yesterday and a new scapegoat will have to be recruited quick smart.

Stevie G will be missing, for Wednesday's clash with Croatia, as he picked up a second yellow card during yesterday's match. Croatia will be the sternest test an England team, that couldn't stamp any authority on Macedonia, will face. The media has been full of comments about McClaren's decision to consign David Beckham to history, and the fact that with Gerrard, Hargreaves and Lennon all unavailable and Lampard continuing a run of dismal form, McClaren now faces a mid-field problem. Ah Karma's a bitch isn't it Steve. This draw with Macedonia has ended the honeymoon between McClaren and the press, a draw or loss on Wednesday will be closely followed by the sound of the media sharpening their knives and picking up their hatchetts.

My favourite quote from the post-match discussion, appeared in The Sunday Times

In the first half the failing had not been tactical, but technical. Where was there a man who could consistently move the ball from his feet in a fashion that invited Peter Crouch, or the still depressed Wayne Rooney to run in on goal? Neville tried the first three crosses from the right. All of them made me think something I had not expected to experience: oh for the accuracy of David Beckham. He may not be involved any longer, but at a standstill, he could deliver more menacing balls than Gerrard or Downing put together.

It was just one of many quotes I read from previously critical sports writers, that signalled a change of heart. Obviously many, like McClaren himself, remain too stubborn and proud to acknowledge the unpalletable truth. That being, that David Beckham still has a contribution to make, and that the haste with which he was sacrificed to make up for the disappointing world-cup and to signal a fresh beginning, might now be repented at England's leisure. Steve McClaren was asked about possibly recalling Becks during the post-match press conference and quickly dismissed the question, but how it must have smarted to have the question asked at that moment. Oh dear, Mr McClaren and Mr Clifford, it is all going wrong, and if England plays poorly against Croatia, well Mr Clifford, I look forward to seeing your attempts to "spin that".

I realise that David Beckham is a real patriot and will be wishing the team well and hoping for an England victory on Wednesday, but let me apologise to any England fans reading this in advance because I can not share his noble sentiments.
I may not know who plays for Croatia, I may not know their anthem or be able to recognise their flag, but Croatia I am your new number one fan! Go Croatia!!

Here are the first batch of screen captures from the David Beckham tribute DVD, Bye Bye Becks, that came out when he transferred from Manchester United to Real Madrid. I meant to load these yesterday, sorry for the hold up! It's taking longer than expected because the quality of the pictures is quite poor in places and so I have been fussing around with color editing to try and improve them. I'll load another batch tomorrow. View here.

If David Beckham does not sign a contract extension with Real Madrid soon, he will be in a position to leave the club on a free at the end of the current season. The rumors that Becks may move to the US to play for the MLS as soon as the 2007 season are gathering momentum with this story being widely published! I think this is a story that will not die until such time as the ink dries on a new contract at Real Madrid.

As I've said before, personally I'd be very happy if Becks moved Stateside. The reality is that at the end of this season Becks is going to be 32. Football is a physically demanding sport that exacts a toll and there are always younger players coming up, who have not got the miles on the clock or the niggles that injuries leave behind. No matter how great a player is, it's hard for 32 to compete with 22, that's just life. Becks can compete better than most, but still he will know his career at the top is finite and the opportunity to play MLS for a few years may be attractive. Especially now that his international career has been unfairly and prematurely ended. David Beckham always said playing for his country meant everything to him and clearly it did, but facing the prospect that the door is closed, does he have the same incentive to remain in European football? By moving to the MLS he may be able to extend his career by a couple of years by playing in a League that might place less demands on him. It could be the difference between retiring at 34 or 36 and personally (and selfishly!) I'd love him to play for as long as possible.

Becks, bless him, has never fully gotten comfortable with Spanish, I know from my own failed attempts at languages, that it's really hard. In the USA he would be able to play in a country that has english as a native language. A country in which he would be one of many, many celebrities and would perhaps no longer be singled out for 24/7 paparazzi attention. A country in which his children could hopefully have a closer to normal life, he has mentioned his concern about Brooklyn beginning to notice the camera's. He would get one last mega pay day that would secure not only his future, but that of his son's. However, perhaps best of all, the very things that have bought him criticism and for which he has been punished in England, being high profile, are more accepted in the US. I think he might simply be treated better in the US than he has been elsewhere. I'm not saying this rumor is true, what do I know, I'm just saying if it were, I'd be very happy for him :-) If he stays at Real Madrid of course we'll continue to support him there! I guess ultimately whatever happens, we hope it's the best thing for Becks! -- Anna & Sara

P.S There are a few new pics in the Real Madrid, This week gallery and in Family but I'm looking for some more!

More, more, more did I say more, rumors and quotes today. Yes, how's that for a change :-)

Raul Bravo is being widely quoted as saying he could imagine Real without David Beckham, what the press doesn't make clear until you muscle your way past the headline and soldier on down into the depths of the story, is that he said he could imagine Real Madrid without Raul, Ronaldo and Beckham, because stars like Zidane and Figo had gone before and everyone adapts. What? People leave? He can imagine a world in which people join and leave the club? Shock horror, thank god someone reported this, cos that IS headline-worthy stuff. Pardon my sarcasm, I need more coffee. I'm very sarcy before the second cup. Raul bless'em did say he hopes Becks will stay because he's a great player. I always knew I liked that boy! Story here

Michael Owen when asked about David Beckham's ommission from the England squad, told Skysport

"I assure you that David is philosophical about it at the moment and he has had a fantastic England career.

"You never know, there might be more caps to come, but never mind whether he gets another cap or not nobody can take away what he's done for England."

Finally, members of the Macedonian team have expressed surprise at Beckham's continued absence from the english team and their coach thinks McClaren has made a big mistake. View story here.

I'll be back a little later to load some photos!

A quote from Jorge Valdano was included in a story in The Times yesterday, one of many (many!) speculating about what will happen with Becks' contract and what is and isn't going on at Real Madrid. I guess we will all know the answer to that soon enough! I found it very interesting, in amongst a lot of stories that are not interesting and merely speculative, because it helped explain perhaps why Beck's is sometimes criticised even though he doesn't deserve it. Here's the quote from Jorge Valdano, the former Real sporting director, who was instrumental in bringing him to Spain in 2003.

“Those who resent football becoming a business also resent Beckham — a symbol of the game’s commercialisation,” Valdano said. “It is unfair because he has talent and professionalism. On the pitch he plays football in the classic British style, giving everything for the cause.

On the pitch he creates for the forwards, he threatens the opposition goal because of the quality of his shooting, he covers the full back, he sticks his foot in with bravery and then he combs his hair, dresses up and leaves the dressing-room . . . and there his other life begins.”

I think Valdano has really nailed it. David Beckham has always been able to separate his football from the rest of his life and has always retained his professionalism and focus. However, that doesn't prevent him from paying a price, for the fact that others can not get past the celebrity and resulting commercial status.

Calderon has also been quoted widely in the english press expressing surprise over Beck's being left out of the England squad. The story is here. The part where he says "The coach must be one very qualified coach" - made me laugh.

Finally, Predrag Mijatovic, the Sporting Director has been reported as suggesting Beck's might have to take a pay cut. In your dreams Predrag, get a clue. You don't pluck the goose that lays the golden egg - because that's just plucking stupid.

As some of you who visit regularly will know, I hit a bandwidth issue last month and I have literally thousand of photos still to add to the gallery, so I've done some thinking and decided that I will have to put some of the bigger photos into albums hosted elsewhere, here is the first of these albums. It has photos of David Beckham from Adidas commercials and a lot of these are great for using as backgrounds.

Today's news or should that be today's confusion :) is that Mr Calderon said Becks would retire in two years and Becks said no he wouldn't, so there we are. Mr Claderon has also expressed his hope that David Beckham will sign a new contract this month. Emphasising that Becks is just as important as a player as he is commercially. The Sporting Director has also expressed his desire for Beckham to stay, all the details here. I think Elvis Presley said it best when he sang "A little less conversation, a little more action please."

Did you catch the interview with Gary Neville in The Times. He talks a bit about Becks and his reaction to being left out of the England squad.

The story doing the rounds today is that the second sexiest dad in the world (Brad Pitt) has asked the sexiest dad in the world (I don't need to tell you who that is, now do I!) to tutor his son Maddox Jolie-Pitt at soccer. Maddox is soccer mad which means he would have a great time hanging out with Becks and his boys! For more on this here's the story.

Also Calderon made the following statements to the Real Madrid Official site

CALDERON PRAISE FOR BECKHAM
By Cindy Garcia-Bennett, PA Sport

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon is keen for David Beckham to extend his stay at the Bernabeu.

Beckham, 31, is currently in talks over a new deal with Madrid but will be free to negotiate with other clubs from January 1 if fresh terms are not agreed.

Calderon, who became president in the summer, claims he will not interfere in the negotiations even though he is desperate for former England captain Beckham to remain in the Spanish capital.

"He (Beckham) is a genius on and off the pitch and he is a wonderful person in every sense," Calderon told the club's official website.

"From a human point of view, he is one of the most charitable and lovely people that I have ever met.

"I know that (Real sporting director Predrag) Mijatovic is in talks with him regarding his contract extension.

"I would love him to stay because he is a great player, but I will not interfere in the sporting side."

Beckham has started just two Primera Liga games this season as new coach Fabio Capello fine-tunes his preferred XI.

But Calderon insists Beckham will get plenty of game time over the coming months, if not a guaranteed first-team place.

"Capello has confidence in him," Calderon added. "He has been a starter in some games and now he is enjoying some minutes, but he cannot play in every game."

This part is especially nice "From a human point of view, he is one of the most charitable and lovely people that I have ever met." It's nice of Calderon to say this :)

The official Match Report and photos are online here

The first of the match photos of David Beckham are in the gallery. There should be more tomorrow.

Also there is a report here of Capello's after match comments. It sounds as if he is going to make some more rotations and Becks may get a chance to return to the starting line up. I hope that is the case! Reuters had the following report

(Reuters) - Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham said he has no complaints about being consigned to the bench for his side's last four matches. The former England captain has lost his place in the Real starting line-up since the arrival of Jose Antonio Reyes from Arsenal but has yet to voice his discontent about the situation.

"I can't complain because I'm not in the starting line-up," the 31-year-old was quoted as saying in the Spanish media on Monday. "There are a lot of players on the bench who are in the same circumstances.

"I will have to adapt to the new situation and work hard to win Capello's confidence. Reyes is a fantastic player and I can understand why he is playing."

Real coach Fabio Capello gave Beckham some reason for optimism when he spoke after Sunday's 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid.

"We've got a good squad of 20 players and there will be some changes in the next few games," said the Italian.

I have had a couple of days to cool off since the England squad was named on Friday. I will spare you all my constant rantings about McClaren and make just one last comment.
Steve McClaren has said he's looking to the future and players coming through, the door is not closed to David Beckham, but those are his reasons for not re-calling him and he stands by them. In the very next breath he states, that he has asked, not once but twice, for Paul Scholes to come out of International retirement. Paul Scholes is 31 years of age.
Mr McClaren, we the fans are more intelligent than you seem willing to give us a credit for. You're dishonesty and double speak is clear for all to see. You are never going to tell the truth about your decision and its motives, but your public relations exercise and your media mollifying tactics, have been a failure, because you look a fool. Even those delighted that Beckham is not in the team, are well aware that you have not been on the level, every one knows that your comments about the door being open, are window dressing and that the door is closed, but you will not own your decision. The public perception of dishonesty, will come back to haunt you. The beginning of this piece in The Times, says it better than I can. Now that's all I have to say on that topic.

I was delighted to read comments from Gary Lineker in today's Telegraph, supporting David Beckham's inclusion in the team. As Lineker said, McClaren has used Beckham to make a point, to show he can make tough decisions unlike his predecessor. That has been my feeling on this all along. That David Beckham has been used, been made a scapegoat, so that McClaren could make a point in no way related to actual footballing skills. You can see the full article here. Thanks Gary!

David Beckham does not deserve to be treated in this way. All we can do at this time is keep Becks in our thoughts, cheer him on at Real Madrid and support him 100%

Now onto cheerier news. You have probably heard about David beckham's wonderful gesture to Darren Clarke if not you can read the story here. Just more proof of what we the fans know, Becks is a man with a heart of a gold!

Also David Beckham has been voted in a poll in the US, the man most girls would like to have "breakfast" with. Yeah sure. Breakfast. Is breakfast the new "coffee"?

Finally, as I mentioned a couple of days ago with contract talks beginning between Becks and Real Madrid we are getting a lot of stories in the press about David Beckham's future and the usual stories about a possible move to the US. Personally, I have to admit I would like to see Becks go to the US. The time may not be right as yet but I can certainly see some upsides to such a move in the future!