Update - Thanks to the fan who shared this link to a radio interview David Beckham gave today. Thanks!

There are pictures of David Beckham out shopping for sunglasses with his right knee brace on and his left ankle bandaged yesterday in the gallery. Thanks to Tanique33.

The Guardian have a preview of an interview with David Beckham that will appear in this Sunday's Observer Sports Monthly, you can read it here.

As posted yesterday, the results of David Beckham's MRI showed he had sprained his medial collateral ligament. This injury requires approximately six weeks recovery according to media reports. However, Becks said in a radio interview that medical staff had told him 8-10 weeks. The team announced that Becks rehabilitation would begin immediately, there are more details here.

David Beckham said on his official website:-

"I'm incredibly disappointed to be injured again so soon after returning to play for the Galaxy. It's been a year of amazing highs and frustrating lows but I'm hopeful I can still play a part this season. When I had a similar injury at Madrid earlier in the year, I was fortunate enough to come back and help the team win La Liga and then get back into the England squad, so I'm staying very optimistic"

Becks will be very disappointed to miss the September Euro 2008 qualifiers. The October qualifiers are scheduled for October 13 against Estonia and October 17 against Russia. The MLS regular season ends on October 21st, LA Galaxy's last three matches will be October 13 against Toronto, October 18 against New York and October 21 against Chicago. David Beckham may return for one or more of these matches but it will depend on his recovery. I know we all wish him the best with his recuperation and look forward to seeing him play when he is fully fit.

The friendly match in Vancouver scheduled for October 3rd will be postponed for any fans with tickets there are details here.

P.S You can see a tiny clip from Wednesday night's post-game presser at Skysports You can also listen to the audio.

Update - David Beckham's injury has been confirmed as a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee and he is expected to need six weeks to heal. Details here. Get well soon Becks!


You can watch match highlights above and listen to David Beckham's post-game presser online here. Thanks to sidelineviews.

David Beckham sprained his knee during tonight's Super Liga final. The LA Galaxy lost to Pachuca 4-3 on Penalties after extra time ended with the scores still tied at one all. You can read the official game recap online here. The team showed a lot of heart and can hold their heads up having given their all.

Game photos are in the gallery.

David Beckham's Post-game comments

(AP) David Beckham told reporters after the game, "I'm going to have a scan tomorrow and we'll see the full extent of what it is and how long I'll be out, but at this stage, it's hard to tell, but it doesn't feel good.... With a ligament strain, it's 4-to-6 weeks. We'll have to wait and see... If it is four to six, I won't be flying to England."

He also said, referring to the left ankle injury he was already carrying when he began the game, "I went into the tackle a little light because of my ankle and tried to compensate for that. I'd have been better off not doing it at all... It's just gone from one thing to another thing. Maybe it's time for me to just say, `I need the rest,' and get it right and don't come back until it's right."

However, at the same time he refused to rule himself out of Saturday's game aginst Real Salt Lake saying, "I'm going to have a scan, at the end of the day, if the scan comes back tomorrow and it is not as bad as it was then you know maybe I've got a chance to play (on Saturday)."

At the end of the second overtime, Becks limped onto the field to join his teammates as they regrouped for penalty kicks, clapping his hands in encouragement. He told reporters, "I was on the treatment bed... but when it went to extra-time I wanted to be out there on the field, cheering the lads on as best I could"

At the end of the game the LA Galaxy players were awarded second-place medals but when David Beckham's was placed around his neck, he immediately took it off. He said by way of explanation, "I hate losing."



He also said, "I'm devastated to have been taken out of the game when I was because I was looking forward to this game... I've been given the rest to try and get my ankle feeling better and it felt better."

Chris Klein who scored the LA Galaxy's equaliser in the last minutes of the second half to take the game into extra time with a spectacular bicycle kick said, "We're not as good when Beckham's not on the field... Just having his presence around the guys gives us a much needed boost. When he's not there, it hurts us."

Coach Yallop spoke of Beckham as an inspiration, saying "He's playing with an injury. He shouldn't be playing, to be honest, but he's playing... That shows the character of him. And it shows the character of the team, because he lifts the team when he plays. Each game he's played, we've played well. That's what we wanted from David, and he gives that to us."

From the audio of the press conference here are two more lovely quotes especially the second one which I think says a lot about the kind of man David Beckham is, thanks to Ben for helping with these

"I think that the team played for the manager, for themselves, the fans in the stadium, the shirt and that's the way it should be. In other games we have not done that, but tonight we did and full credit to the players. They showed a character that a lot of people didn't believe was there after seeing other games we've played, but tonight it was...."

"Kleiny told me he hadn't scored a goal like that since he was ten... and I said to him about his little son who was in the crowd... I'm sure that he'd be very proud of his Dad for scoring such a great goal from a scissor kick like that."

David Beckham appeared visibly upset after the game and during the press conference. Let's all hope that he will take the time he needs to fully heal now. He has carried the weight of many unrealistic expectations, ambitions and pressure from many people. Get well soon Becks! All the best for a speedy recovery.

Sad news, David Beckham sprained his right knee during tonights game, the details that are known so far can be viewed here. Please say a prayer for Becks or send some positive thoughts and let's hope the sprain is as mild as possible. * The match is tied up at 1-1 heading into extra time and David Beckham is back on the bench after receiving treatment and looks to be in OK spirits all considered. * The match is still tied up after extra time and will be decided on penalties. Captain Becks is urging his team-mates on from the sideline. Go Galaxy! * Sadly it wasn't to be. Pachuca win 4-3 on Penalties.

First of the photos are in the gallery.

Pre-game Information

Tonight LA Galaxy will play Pachuca FC in the final of the Super Liga. The match will kick-off at 8PM PT - 11PM ET and will be televised on Telefutura. You can also watch it for free online as it will be streamed live via the official Super Liga site. You can view a preview of the sold-out match online here. David Beckham is expected to play so let's wish him and the team all the best and hope that tonight Becks will win the first of many trophies with the Galaxy. Go Becks!!

New Blog entry from Becks - Click here to read David Beckham's latest blog entry.

David Beckham's Soccer USA - Episode six of the US version is now online and the UK version will be online later.

Update - Listen to David Beckham talking to the media at training today.



(Source) David Beckham attended training this morning and told reporters "I trained today and I'm still uncomfortable but, hopefully, I'll be ready to play tomorrow... It's definitely feeling stronger, but it's taking time. I've had quite a few matches in a short space of time. It's not really given the necessary time to recover. If I had six weeks rest, then it would clear up completely but that's not possible."

When asked if he aggravated his ankle injury last week, he said, "Possibly. But at the moment I aggravate it every time I play. It's one of those injuries where you can either be out and rest for a month or six weeks, or you just play through it."

One reporter asked, 'with games every 3 days or so, do you pick and choose what games to sit out because you're going to be be hard pressed'? Becks replied, "I don't pick and choose you know I think that's down obviously to the Manager to look at me and to talk to me and to just decide if I can play in those games. If I can play in those games, then I'll play. If it's going to make the injury worse or put me out for another two months then I wouldn't put myself in that position."

Coach Yallop told reporters, "We'll see how they get through today but I expect both [Beckham and Donovan] to play." Full story online here.

(Source) It was also Israel "Izzy" Sesay, the 16-year-old forward from Sierra Leone, first session with his new team and he was welcomed by Becks. That alone was enough to have the teenager beaming from ear to ear. Izzy said, "Oh, man, he's been great so far. He's really a nice guy. I went in the locker room and we just talked and stuff. He said welcome to the team and don't be shy and all that. It was good."

First of the photos are in the gallery.

The Beckhams go to the beach

There are a couple of new photos of The Beckhams at Malibu Beach yesterday with the Ramsay's in the gallery. You can read about there day out here. Also there are some older photos from June 17th of Becks and Roberto Carlos with the La Liga trophy. Thanks to Tanique33 and to sidelineviews for the audio.

Adidas have extended their Impossible is Nothing campaign with a website where David Beckham and Laila Ali lead you through an interactive program where you can create your own story about how you have overcome a challenge in your life. It's a great site for everyone but especially for kids. There are contests on the site that you can enter to win prizes including a chance to spend a day with David Beckham. The contests are open to US residents only and run until the end of November.



As today is catch up on all things Adidas day, I also thought I would post a picture of the new Adidas LA Galaxy away boots that David Beckham will be wearing (we had pictures of Becks home boots earlier in the month) Thanks to Ben for sending this through! Just click the picture above to enlarge.

Super Liga Pre-preview

The LA Galaxy did not train Monday and offered no updates on David Beckham's left ankle injury. His status and whether he will play is likely to be a game day decision. You can view a preview of the sold-out match online here.

Finally, Alexi Lalas has been railing against the LA Galaxy's schedule and whilst it definitely places the team at a disadvantage, it does seem rather late to protest. These comments needed to be made in January when MLS was salivating over the money they stood to make by back-loading the schedule and sending David Beckham and the team on a whistle-stop tour of America. Details here. Steve Davis at ESPN provides a more measured and objective view of how the Galaxy's season has gone awry.

Thanks to Tanique33 there are un-tagged photos of David and Victoria Beckham driving out of the Chateau Marmont in LA where they had dinner in the gallery for anyone who didn't spot them. You can also see a short clip at x17online. Lets all hope that Becks ankle is recovering and that he is feeling better!

Colorado Rapids 3 - 0 LA Galaxy

Sadly LA Galaxy, who were without Landon Donovan as well as Becks, recorded their 10th loss of the season this evening. They have taken 1 point from a possible 18 in the last 6 games. They are second to bottom in the standings and although they have 4 games in hand they are more than 12 points behind the last of the top 8 teams. To be honest, it will take a miracle to make the play-offs but miracles do happen! You can view the standings here and you can read the match report here.

Rumors and Speculation part 2

The Times now reports that Jurgen Klinsmann former Manager of the German national team might be in the frame to replace Frank Yallop as coach of the LA Galaxy. This rumor has been circulating on MLS related messageboards for some time. Klinsmann turned down an offer to manage the US National Team but it is believed this was because he would not have been given sufficient control and decision-making power. Again, time will only tell if there is any truth to this story.

Finally, as football/soccer fans let's all say a prayer for or send some positive thoughts to Sevilla's Antonio Puerta who is in the hospital after suffering from two cardiac arrests during his match today.

The gallery has resumed updates and there are a few more photos from Thursdays game. As well as a nice picture of Becks in the LA Galaxy away kit that Ben sent through. Thanks Ben!

Rumors and speculation

The Daily Mail is reporting that Alexi Lalas is facing the sack and that Frank Yallop's job is also under threat, with the LA Galaxy languishing near the bottom of the table and looking increasingly likely to miss the play-offs, details here. I don't know if there is any real substance to the speculation... we can but dream...

Speaking of people we would like to see sacked. Sportinglife reports that Steve McClaren has defended his decision to play David Beckham for the full game against Germany saying, "he needed 90 minutes". Of course about 30 hours later we all saw with our own two eyes just how much he needed those 93 minutes and how good they had been for him. I wonder if McClaren is familiar with the expression, "It is better to be silent and thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt?"

Becks on the UK Biography channel

The Biography channel in the UK are showing a one hour documentary on David Beckham's life and career this week. You can watch it on SKY Channel 156 or Virgin TV Channel 242 at 10am and 3pm tomorow and also at 4pm on Wednesday. Check the schedule online here. Thanks to Jane for the heads up!

Also there is a good article in this mornings Chronicle giving David Beckham well deserved credit for all he has been doing for MLS.

Just a remeinder the poll for the Golden Foot ends on August 31. This is the last year that David Beckham might be eligible for inclusion, so please make sure you VOTE and if you go to any forums or know of other sites that might ask people to vote for him, please get the word out! Let's have one last big voting push this week as David Beckham deserves this award!

Also Askmen are running a poll for the top 49 men of 2007. You can vote for Becks in the athletic catergory with a 10 being the highest rating you can give so click here to give Becks a 10!

Becks gets a well earned rest

It has been confirmed that David Beckham will not be travelling to Colorado with the LA Galaxy for this Sunday's game against the Rapids. A press release on the LA Galaxy site quoted David Beckham as saying, "I'm really disappointed to not be able to play my first match in Colorado, when I was there for the All-Star Game it looked like a fantastic stadium... I'd love to be on the pitch with my team this Sunday, but our training staff has advised me that it would be detrimental to not only my health for this game but for the rest of the season as well. Thanks to all the fans that have supported me these last few weeks; I look forward to making it out to Colorado for our next scheduled match there." Let's all wish Becks the best with his recuperation.

Related Press The Times reports that David Beckham’s representatives are almost certain to step in and demand that he does not play 24 hours after internationals in the future which is at least some positive news given that Becks still faces at least 20 games and almost 80,000 air miles, which represents almost a week in the air, over the next three months!

You can also read an interesting column from Martin Rogers and another in The Daily Breeze. Thanks to Siniestrototal for the heads up!

David Beckham and LA Galaxy to play in New Zealand

It has been confirmed that David Beckham and the LA Galaxy will play a friendly against the Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand on Dec 2 as part of their Oceania tour which already includes an exhibition match in Sydney, Australia on November 27th.


P.S The site is moving webhost this weekend so updates might be a little sporadic until things are all set up. Unfortunately we can't currently update the gallery but you can still access it. Updating will resume soon.

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Just a heads up - the site is moving to a new server this weekend which may cause some brief outages.

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You can watch ESPN highlights including Jesse Marsch's dirty foul on David Beckham that should have received a straight red card above.

First of the photos from the game are in the gallery. Thanks to Tanique33!

David Beckham is a wounded warrior after playing another 90+ minutes in the LA Galaxy's loss to Chivas USA. He played with tremendous heart as always and although he put in some great crosses his team-mates were unable to convert. Coach Yallop used up all of the subs and with more than 20 minutes to go Becks, who was running on sheer willpower, hit the wall. He was barely able to walk and couldn't take the LA Galaxy's last corner. He still saluted the fans before he left the field. Let's send some positive thoughts and energy for his recovery his way. You can read a match recap online here.

Post-match comments

David Beckham did not speak with the press after the game. Here are comments from LA Galaxy Manager Frank Yallop and team-mate Landon Donovan -

Galaxy coach Frank Yallop said, "It wasn't the intention to play him at all but he came in and said that he felt okay... And obviously with our situation in the league we need points."

"I didn't want to leave him on but in the end, at 2-0, he tried and all it needed was maybe one set piece or one bit of magic by David.

"Right at the end he looked hobbled... I used him tonight and I shouldn't have done that. I don't like to put players like David in jeopardy of getting injured, and that wasn't the intention."

Landon Donovan, who had also returned from playing 60 minutes for the USA in a Friendly against Sweden in Europe, entered the match against Chivas USA in the 59th minute as a substitute. He said, "I was exhausted. I'm sure David was too... Obviously, he wasn't the sharpest he's ever been because of all the traveling and the game last night. You could tell at the end he could barely move, but we don't have many options."

Yallop, in a departure from the usual vague responses told the media he couldn't envision David Beckham playing in the LA Galaxy's next match this Sunday in Colorado.

The award for the worst timing goes too..

Alexei Lalas. The LA Galaxy GM has expressed his concerns about David Beckham's schedule for club and country. He told The BBC, "I'm not going to deny there comes a point when your body can't do it anymore... If at any point we felt it was detrimental to his health or ability to help our team we would take action." He elaborated, "We have a vested interest in this player and we have spent a tremendous amount of money to retain his services. We want to make sure we get our money's worth and that he is healthy and both physically and mentally ready to go when he plays for the Galaxy."

Where was Alexi's concern for David Beckham's health yesterday? Surely considering soccer is a team sport Alexi Lalas would be better off turning his attention to finding David Beckham a team to play with, the LA Galaxy doesn't appear to have one at the moment. Also, just for the record Mr Lalas, David Beckham is generating a tremendous amount of money for LA Galaxy, AEG and all MLS franchises. In fact his commercial value is generating more revenue than all the franchises combined were making before he arrived. He is paying for himself and a great deal besides. He has already generated more publicity for the club and league than it is has ever received before. The only thing Mr Lalas needs to say is thank you.

There is an article on ESPN that raises some of the many questions Mr Lalas might be better off dwelling on.

The BBC match report is online here and you can click here to rate the players the first of the photos are in the gallery thanks to Tanique33.

Post-match comments

You can watch a clip of Becks talking to skysports and to The BBC above. It's not very good quality and the clips are clearer on the sites.

David Beckham told reporters, "It was nice to get the minutes. In the last nine weeks I have only played two games and trained three times. The ankle still a bit sore but it was nice to be out there"

"I thought I played well... I tired towards the end, but it was good to get 90 to 94 minutes out there. I haven't played many games. I've played about three games and trained about three times... Every time I step on to the pitch it feels like a trial. I'm always wanting to prove people wrong all the time. People expect that I can't handle the travel, then I have to prove them wrong. That's the only way I can do it, by playing well and winning games. We didn't win, but I'm happy to be out there for 90 minutes."

When he was asked if the travel affected him he said, "Not at all, I slept nine hours every night. My body clock's slightly back into the way of life back here in England. So far it hasn't affected me... In the future, who knows? I can't say that it's not going to but, at the moment, it's not and I'll carry on playing for my country as long as I'm wanted."

He also said, "I got a knock on my ankle and it has slightly swelled up again but I'm planning on playing tomorrow."

Germany Coach Joachim Loew said limiting Beckham's chances was key to the victory. "England only got a few free kicks, that's the biggest danger with England, the free kicks from Beckham."

There is a write up in The Times about David Beckham's continued place in the England squad, that is reasonably balanced.

David Beckham's Soccer USA

Here is the UK version of David Beckham's Soccer USA the US version is online at MLSnet.com



Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4

Update - David Beckham started the game. The first of the photos thanks to Tanique33 are in the gallery.

Here is a second part of the interview David Beckham gave in Harlem on Friday. He talks about playing for England, travelling and his injury -

MLS Magazine

David Beckham is on the cover of the first issue of a brand new magazine dedicated to covering MLS in the US. A huge thank you to Diane who bought and scanned the magazine for fans who aren't able to get their own copy you can click here to read David Beckham's cover story.

England v Germany Preview

You can view a match preview online here. David Beckham is expected to play in what will be his 97th appearance for England, some pundits are tipping him to start but it remains unconfirmed. Either way let's hope England win and that Becks has a great game with no ill-effects!

Television details - In the UK the match which kicks-off at 8PM BST will be aired live on BBC One. In the US the game will screen on FSC at 5PM ET (there is a 2 hour delay)

Newcastle's Steven Taylor who has received his first England call-up for the match against Germany has thanked David Beckham for taking him under his wing you can read his comments here.

Also, it's a Wednesday and Wednesday's are David Beckham's Soccer USA day so just a reminder that you can see the UK show at 7.15PM on Channel Five and the US show will air at 7PM on FSC and be available shortly after via MLSnet.com.

The Sun reports that David Beckham continues to improve Soccer TV ratings in the US, details here.

In other news, former Real Madrid Manager, Fabio Capello has given an interview in which he has claimed that the decision to side-line David Beckham was not his. He also mentions that when he arrived Real Madrid had a very difficult dressing room with a number of factions in conflict you can read his comments, online here. I certainly look forward to David Beckham's next autobiography.

David Beckham is set to earn is 97th cap representing England in the friendly against Germany tomorrow night at Wembley. The Times reports that Steve McClaren, England Manager, has defended his decision to include an injured David Beckham in the team saying, "I don’t see how rest could have benefited him... He needs to play because he hasn’t had regular games in a long while and he needs matches to get over that ankle injury. It will be good for us to have him fitter in three weeks’ time, in the same way it will be better for Michael Owen." The Sun suggest that Becks will start and play 60 minutes but the starting-line-up won't be announced until closer to tomorrows 8pm kick-off time.

Clip of David Beckham @ training

Here is a clip of David Beckham at yesterday's England training session. I have also added a segment from Sky news that discusses David Beckham's hectic playing schedule.

(Source) England Manager, Steve McClaren, has told a press conference today that, David Beckham "looked very, very good" in training this morning. He also said when asked about David Beckham making the trip form the US for the friendly, "we are delighted in his attitude in wanting to do that and wanting to play for England." You can watch Steve McClaren's press conference and his comments on David Beckham online here. Most media articles don't seem to be representing the context of what was said accurately and so it is worth actually watching the clip for yourself.

England Captain, John Terry backed Becks to deal with playing in the US and also for England saying, "I've spoken to him [Beckham] and he's fine... he's a great professional. He's getting his sleep in and he will deal with it in his own way."

Skysports reports that team-mate Peter Crouch paid tribute to Becks in a recent interview with Zoo magazine saying, "He's still probably the best player in the the world at crossing the ball. For me personally, it's fantastic to get into the box and if I find a bit of space, invariably he will find my head. When he gets half a yard, we know when and how he's going to try and cross it and that's why myself, Michael (Owen) or the other strikers are able to get into the box and benefit from it."

"I want him to carry on playing for England. If he keeps on playing like he did against Estonia and keeps on creating goals for me, I'm all for it."

Becks has added a new entry to his blog you can read it here.

Here is a cute video from Becks visit to FC Harlem last Friday. It features a lot of the kids that Becks coached talking about what it was like to meet him as well as some of the parents. Sweet!

On Saturday I posted a clip of an interview David Beckham gave in Harlem. Another clip from this interview has now been posted on CNN and although 75% of the clip is the same there are a couple of new questions you can watch it here.

Update - You can watch a video of England training online here.



David Beckham, fresh from being a big hit in the big apple is back in the UK to link up with the England national team today.

Update - An open training session was held at the Arsenal training grounds in North London, London Colney, today. According to reports, Becks showed little sign of jetlag as he joined in training. He delighted several fans who had won a competition to attend the open session and also took some time out to chat with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, details here. Photos in the gallery.

Although Becks ankle has swollen up since Saturday's game in NY, he is still hopeful of featuring on Wednesday according to The BBC.

Steve Davis, an ESPN columnist, wrote a really nice piece on Saturday night's game in New York and on David Beckham's effect on MLS if you haven't seen it read it here.

Martin Rogers, one of my other favorite sports writers, has written a good article on the MLS's 'unfriendly' schedule that makes some good points about the problems presented by the fact that MLS ignores the FIFA calendar in it's planning. As David Beckham attempts the superman-like feat of playing two games in the space of 28 hours it would seem to me that the time has come for MLS to start making some allowances for international fixtures.

Finally TMZ have a cute video of Becks at Friday's soccer clinic in Harlem giving his own shoes to a fan.

Update - David Beckham has arrived at Heathrow airport in London, photo in the gallery. Unfortunately the caption says that he was walking with a 'pronounced limp'. We should hear more about his injury status tomorrow. Also I've added the new Intimately Beckham Ad to the gallery thanks to Megan for sharing it.


You can watch David Beckham's assists and his post match interview above.

Photos from the game are in the gallery.

LA Galaxy were narrowly defeated in an epic played out in front of a MLS record crowd of 66,000 who were on the edge of their seats through out. David Beckham started and went the full 90+ minutes at Giants stadium tonight. He showed that he is a giant among men, with his injured left ankle still heavily bandaged and lacking match fitness he played with heart, courage and determination. With three assists and as the creator of the majority of the Galaxy's attacking opportunities he kept the Galaxy in the game but the NY side were the better team and snatched the victory in the end. Although it was only captain Beckham's second start and his first full game in over 8 weeks he has already had a transformational effect on the Galaxy who bear little resemblance to the team that lost to the New England Revolution.

The best is of course yet to come. Once David Beckham is fully fit and the team has an opportunity to gel they will be a stronger side for it! There is a match summary online here and you can view the match play-by-play tracker here. Also 'Beckham sets up three in Galaxy's loss to Red Bulls' from Reuters and a match summary at ESPN.

At the end of the match Becks, although very tired, went over to the stands to greet fans, he applauded the four corners of the field as he always does and gave his shirt to a little girl. More details from the night are on northjersey.com

Press - here are a few more articles, 'Beckham big in the Big Apple' from The Times, '66,000 reasons why Beckham matters to MLS' from Yahoo, 'Beckham alights on planet earth' from The New York Times and 'Becks caught up in Bulls rush' from New York AM this includes a video clip of Becks training on Friday and of his team-mates Cobi Jones and Landon Donovan speaking about him.

David Beckham's Post match comments

You can watch David Beckham's complete post-game Presser here.

On the game: - "It was very different. I haven't been involved in a game like that since I was nine or 10 years old where there were so many goals and the change of play changes so much in 90 minutes. But it was a great game and great for the people who turned up tonight. You see the stadium and you see the fans, it's pretty incredible and it's great for the league and great for both teams to play in an atmosphere like that. We're disappointed because I think we played pretty well in the game and we created enough chances to win the game. Congratulations to Red Bull, I think both teams made it exciting for all the people who paid their money, but we're disappointed to go home without points."

On his ankle after playing 90 minutes on the artificial turf: - "I was surprised to actually play 90 minutes. The manager and the coaching staff kept asking me if I wanted to come off. But I'm quite a stubborn person on and off the field. When we were winning I didn't want to come off and when we were losing I didn't want to come off. I think my stubbornness took over and I didn't want to come off the pitch. It was such a great atmosphere and I was enjoying the game, with so many goals on both ends, I didn't want to come off. My ankle took a pounding obviously, I'm not used to this surface but it wasn't bad. It played quite well tonight. There were a couple instances where I rolled over on my ankle but at the end of the day we have to play on this surface. My ankle is more swollen than it was before the game but I'm sure it'll be fine for the game on Wednesday."

On the recent play of the Galaxy: - "I think it's about confidence. When new players come to the team, it can go one way or the other and it's gone the way I hoped it would. I think tonight we're a little disappointed because we lost the game but there's a lot we can take from the game because we showed a lot of character tonight. To go one-nil down, then 2-1 up, then 2-2 and down 4-2, then come back, it's a learning curve. Sometimes you've just got to accept that you're only going to get a point tonight, but we've got the mentality that we want more and I don't see that as a bad thing I see it as a good thing. It might be bad when you don't end up with a point but on the other side we've got a team that wants to win and that's a positive."

On playing for England this week: - "Only time will tell. I have to see how it is tomorrow. I'm traveling tomorrow morning to London to meet up with the team and I'd like to play some part in the game on Wednesday and then flying back, hopefully get some rest and play some part in the Chivas game. I think it's important for me to get back and be at the game and hopefully play some part in the game."

Read more comments from David Beckham and his team-mates online here.

The official LA Galaxy site have added a clip of David Beckham talking to the press last Tuesday after his first training session with the team you can watch it here. Becks talks about how Victoria and his sons are settling in, it's a really nice clip.

The LA Times has a video of David Beckham being interviewed in Harlem yesterday following a youth soccer clinic. Becks spent the afternoon coaching 33 teenage players from the FC Harlem Lions team and having a great time, details here. You can watch it above or see a smaller clearer version online here. It's a cute interview!

More photos of Becks in New York are in the gallery.

David Beckham New York Presser

David Beckham is really enjoying his New York visit he told reporters, "This has been one of the best days I have had since I arrived in America", referring to the clinic involving kids from Harlem Youth Soccer. It showed as he seemed to be in a very upbeat mood at his New York press conference watch it below -



Part two of the press conference - watch it here

You can also read a great article from Martin Rogers who attended the Press conference about how David Beckham has overcome adversity and criticism, online here.

NY Red Bulls v LA Galaxy preview

A crowd of more than 60,000 people are expected to watch tonight's MLS match at Giants Stadium which will kick off at 7.30PM ET. LA Galaxy desperately need 3 points to keep their hopes of making the MLS Cup play-offs alive. David Beckham is considered 'likely to start' and told reporters, "I'm feeling good. A little bit tired... but I'm ready for the game (today). Hopefully my ankle will hold up like it did the other night." You can view match previews here and also here. Good luck to the team and go Becks


Where to watch - The match will be televised on FSC and FSE. It will be available on MLS TV for those of you who subscribe as it is not being shown on ESPN. I will also post a link to anywhere else I find that the match can be watched live online at game time.

Update - Photos of David Beckham at a youth soccer clinic held in Harlem today and training in Montclair are in the gallery. A short clip of Becks from the clinic is online here.

You can also watch his New York Press Conference online here.



David Beckham and the LA Galaxy flew to New York Thursday ahead of their Saturday night match against the NY Red Bulls at Giants stadium.

Today, Becks is scheduled to take part in an afternoon youth soccer clinic in Harlem, along with Galaxy teammate Ty Harden and New York Red Bull forwards Juan Pablo Angel and Jozy Altidore, after which he will speak at a news conference in Manhattan, details here.

Becks schedule over the next few days is enough to make you wish that the Star Trek transporter was real and that Scottie could beam him to the UK and then beam him back to LA! Becks outlined his schedule to reporters saying, "Obviously it's going to be difficult travel-wise. I go straight from New York, if my ankle is fine and I have played some minutes in New York, leaving Saturday night or Sunday and meet up with the (England) team on Monday. We play Wednesday and then I fly back (to Los Angeles) Thursday morning. I think I arrive at 12 o'clock and we've got a game that evening so hopefully I will be physically ready to play some part in that game as well. Hopefully it will all be good" We hope so too! You can read more details of David Beckham's itinerary online here.

Steve McClaren will name his England squad later today. He had already advised that if David Beckham came through Wednesday night's Super Liga semi-final none the worse for wear he would be included. Update - Becks has been confirmed as in the squad for the friendly against Germany, squad list here.

There was a touching story in last night's LA Times about a generous gesture from Becks to brighten the day of an ill fan who was kindly invited to Wednesday's game by LA Galaxy team-mate Alan Gordon. Let's wish her all the best for her treatment, story here.

There are a few more photos of David Beckham's family celebrating his first Galaxy goal in the gallery. As well as a good write up of the game including quotes from David beckham's new team-mate Abel Xavier, online here.

David Beckham Fans Online contest

A documentary, David Beckham The Life Of An Icon is being released on DVD on August 20th in the UK and Nov 6 in the US. It covers David Beckham's life story right up to the present and features his shining moments from 2007, including being voted Britain's Greatest Ambassador, the closing of his final season with Real Madrid and being recalled to the England team. The DVD extras also include a special featurette ‘Brand Beckham’ and an extended interview with Sir Bobby Charlton. DBFO has three copies of this DVD to give away. The contest is open to all fans. Please e-mail admin@fans-online.com to enter, putting DVD contest in the subject line. The contest closes at midnight PT on Monday, August 20th. The three winners will be notified on August 21st and will need to provide a street mailing address at that time.

Shout out to fans in New York

I have been contacted by the New York Post as they are considering doing a piece on David Beckham super fans in New York so if you think you are an uber-fan and would like to be featured please e-mail me at admin@fans-online.com Thanks!

Becks at LAX Clip

Here's a short clip of becks passing through LAX on his way to New York yesterday I added it to Youtube for anyone like me who couldn't make it play on the Splash site -

Update - There are photos of Becks at the airport on his way to New York in the gallery. Also, watch today's David Beckham report online here.

Video - Here is a clip showing David Beckham's post match interview on Telefutura as well as the coverage of Becks great goal and assist from ESPN and MLSnet. Thanks to Notorious


More match highlights are online at MLSnet and watch a snippet from his post-match presser here.

Photos - There are more photos from the game in the gallery.

David Beckham Post-match comments

"It was nice to get the early goal. But tonight was not just about my goal and Landon's goal. I think it was a team performance that was exceptional. We worked hard as a team and played hard as a team and we won as a team.

"I've always said that everybody has to be patient.. I had to let nature take its course with my ankle. It's an injury and there wasn't much I could do about that... I was happy to be out there with the team and happy to be playing again so we're very happy tonight."

It is something [free kicks] I have always practiced a lot during my career, but I haven't been able to take any for eight weeks because of how my ankle has been... As soon as the free kick was given, I don't want to sound too confident but I felt I was going to score as soon as I had the ball in my arms," said Beckham. "Sometimes you feel like that, sometimes you don't get any feeling. Tonight I had the feeling that I was going to score. As soon as I hit it I knew that I had kicked it well

"I didn't expect to last an hour but it felt great after 10 minutes into the game... My confidence got up with my ankle and I was happy to be out there for 60 minutes. Overall, the ankle was a lot better than I thought it was going to be and I felt confident going into tackles. I went into one tackle tonight, which obviously I received a yellow card for... I need to thank the ref for not giving me a red card."

Landon Donovan on Becks contribution - "His ability to see things, he's got a play in mind always before the ball gets to him... He makes good decisions on the ball. You don't see that on TV, but here when he's under pressure and he gets into tight areas he makes the right pass more often than not and gets the ball into dangerous positions. I was really impressed by that."

"If this was him at who knows what percent of himself, I can't wait until he's fully healthy... I thought our attitude was great and I think David in there brought a lot out of a lot of guys."

On Becks goal - "It was something special... We all watch it on TV and you're like 'it can't be that good.' When I turned around I went 'Holy Jesus, are you kidding me?' Unbelievable."

On handing over the captaincy - Donovan revealed he offered the captaincy to Beckham during an earnest parking-lot conversation after the team's practice Tuesday and said, "I'm not stupid and I'm not naive... I know he's been captain of England, one of the best teams in the world. I'm going to play the same whether I'm wearing the captain's arm band or not... It made him an immediate part of the team. . . . I think guys looked at him different and he could say things differently. He was a great leader, and I think he's going to help us."

David Beckham said I'm very honored that Donovan felt the need to give me the armband and that he felt it would lift the team.

Frank Yallop on Becks - "We've all been waiting for that free kick. It was good to see him on the field in the jersey and start the game. We feel he's part of us now that he's played... To get a goal to cap it off, it's a dream start for (Beckham). I'm very excited for him."

Pick of the press

Galaxy win straight out of Hollywood
Source: MLSnet

Beckham's first start for Galaxy full of firsts
Source: LA Times

Beckham's Hollywood highlight
Source: Yahoo Sports

LA rides Beckham brilliance past DC
Source: MLSnet

Beckham inspires Galaxy victory in first start
Source: Reuters

Beckham's comments belie the hype
Source: New York Times

Beckham deflects praise over stellar performance
Source: PA

Extra wait for Beckham was worth it
Source: LA Times

Free Kicker's paradise
Source: Sports Illustrated

Beckham takes captain's armband to great effect
Source: ESPN

Other news

David Beckham has updated his blog with a new note you can read it here.

David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK Version) was added to the site yesterday the US version is now on MLSnet. Episode 3 and 4 can be viewed by fans anywhere as the international blackout has been lifted. Watch it here.

David Beckham had his first LA Galaxy start, his first LA Galaxy goal and his first LA Galaxy assist tonight! He donned the captains armband and led out the team for a 2-0 victory over DC United that takes the LA Galaxy into the Super Liga final against mexican side Pachuca, scheduled for August 29. Although clearly still carrying an ankle injury David beckham played a brilliant 60 minutes scoring a goal from a superb free kick in the 27th minute and placing a perfectly weighted pass at the feet of Landon Donovan who scored the second goal of the night. Becks received a standing ovation as he left the field and was deservedly awarded man of the match! The first of the photos are in the gallery The official match report is online here. You can see Becks goal and assist on ESPN

Update - you can watch the LA Galaxy v DC United game live here. David Beckham started the game and is captaining the LA Galaxy.

Update 2 - David Beckham has scored his first LA Galaxy goal from a free kick on his first start!!! *woot* He's da man!



David Beckham expects to play half of tonight's Super Liga semi-final against DC United. It is not yet known whether he will start or come on as a sub.

(Source) He told reporters, Tuesday, "It's [his ankle] not perfect yet, but I think I can play at least half a game tomorrow, which is important for me... It's important for the team that I at least get on the pitch and help contribute. It was good to get out on to the field today and have a bit of practice... This is my first time, since I arrived, to be out on the training pitch and it felt good." Becks said he was still feeling some pain in his Achilles' tendon and under the ankle. "My ankle's not perfect... It's about 70-80 percent." but he still feels able to play saying, I think the only 20% or 30% that's missing is the strength in the ankle... This is my first day training, so it still feels unstable to a certain extent, but it feels stable enough to actually play in a game and see how far I can take it.

Details of Tuesday's training session are online here. The report says that David Beckham did play in a short-sided scrimmage. At one point he took a shot on goal, resulting in a slight grimace and a little hop on his injured left ankle, proving that while he's ready to join in training, he's still not quite at full strength just yet.

The report also noted that 'his ankle was heavily wrapped. Yet while it's important not to rush Beckham back too quickly, the club hasn't scored in their last three games (all since Beckham joined the team), and his return to the team could be all-important if the Galaxy are going to make a charge up the standings and grab a spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs.'

Coach yallop added, "It's important because our place in the league needs to get going quickly. It's been frustrating for all of us not to have someone like David available... I think David will be the one who knits it all together.".

Greg Lalas, the brother of La Galaxy GM Alexi Lalas, presented a case for resting David Beckham in an article on Goal.com yesterday, but obviously the brothers are not in agreement. Thanks to the fan who shared the link.

A match preview for tonight's semi-final is online here. Good luck to Becks I hope his guardian angel will be working hard tonight!

Watching the game

Tonight's game will be shown on Telefutura in the US, but fans elsewhere can watch the game online for free on mlsnet.com The game kicks off at 7PM PT which is 10PM ET.

Tentative plans

(Source) Becks spent 30 minutes answering press questions Tuesday and said that, depending on how his ankle holds up tonight, he expects to travel with the Galaxy to New Jersey on Thursday and to play against the New York Red Bulls at Giants Stadium on Saturday. From there if he is named in Steve McClaren's squad Friday, for England's Aug. 22 game against Germany in London, and his ankle feels well enough, he will fly to England on Sunday, returning in time for the Galaxy's game against Chivas USA on Aug. 23. He said, "I don't want to be meeting up with England and not being able to take part in the game because obviously that means another player doesn't get the opportunity to play... If I'm right, I'll be meeting up."

Update - According to The Sun Steve McClaren told reporters when asked about David Beckham's status, "We’ve got to assess it [his fitness] over the next few days. He’ll be in the squad, we want him to come over and play a part against Germany but it all depends on what happens this evening. We’ll be keeping in close contact with him and the Galaxy medical staff to see his condition. If at all possible of course we’d like David to join us on Monday."

David Beckham's Soccer USA

Just a quick reminder that David Beckham's Soccer USA will be on Channel Five in the UK at 7.15PM tonight and also on FSC at 7.30PM ET. Update - Watch Episode 4 of the UK version below and you can hear Becks talking about his MLS debut in part one and his new team-mates in part three -


Part two - Part three - Part four

Motorola contest

There is a new contest from Motorola to win a trip to the David Beckham Academy and a chance to meet Becks himself on the official David Beckham website click here to check it out and enter!

Thanks to Ben for sharing two screen shots from the new FIFA 08 game and the following info: It is scheduled for release approx October 9, 2007. The demo should be released as follows: PC-DVD and Xbox360 = 27th august 2007 and Playstation 3 = 10th september 2007. Amazon.com/uk/ca etc might have decent preoder deals for FIFA 08 shop around!


Ben has also sent through a picture of the new boots that David Beckham will be wearing from Dec/Jan. His new Adidas Predator boots are called "Power Pulse". The boots will be dark blue with yellow stripes to match the away kit and he will also have white boots with a yellow stripe to match the home kit. It's possible he will continue to wear his current red and white boots when he plays for England.

Finally someone asked about where they could get a LA Galaxy shirt, I'm afraid all I know about this (and it's not very much!) is posted here.

David Beckham Injury info

Grahame Jones has written an informative article regarding David Beckham's injury. It runs over two pages you can read it here. The article answers several questions that I had and it is also good to read supportive quotes from David Beckham's team-mates.

Kyle Martino said, "He's 10 times more frustrated than any fan or any writer who's kind of slandering him right now... He's in the training room more than anyone else. It isn't like he's sitting in his Beverly Hills house, relaxing, sipping mai-tais, just laughing at everyone. He's really frustrated. He wants to be out there playing." Peter Vagenas, a veteran of the team added, "I mean, we're all trying to build something here. I wish people could see the condition of his ankle. I know David has been pushing to play, even on one leg. But in the end it's better to get him healthy."

The BBC reports that an update on Becks injury status is expected later today. Updated- David Beckham has indicated he will play tomorrow in the Super Liga game against DC United, details here.

Don Cuddy has written a nice column about David Beckham which is online here. Just ignore his references to what David Beckham earns, he like many reporters has been blinded by the 250 million dollar press release and doesn't seem to understand that David Beckham is the money-maker for himself, his club and the league.

There are more photos Of David Beckham from the LA Galaxy's last game in the gallery.