David Beckham made his long-awaited AC Milan debut after playing 45 minutes in a friendly against Hamburg in Dubai.
Beckham, who has joined the club on loan from MLS side LA Galaxy, started the match in midfield alongside Andrea Pirlo, Massimo Ambrosini and Ronaldinho.
He displayed a few good touches with his famous right foot before being substituted at half-time by Mathieu Flamini.
Ronaldinho gave Milan the lead from the penalty spot after 63 minutes, but Collin Benjamin equalised four minutes later to send the match into a penalty shoot-out, which the Rossoneri got the better of their German opponents prevailing 4-3 on penalties.
"Felt just like when I was at (Manchester) United," Beckham said. "They had families here sitting with the kids and it brings back memories.
"Penalties aren't the best way to win a game, but I'm glad that we won. AC Milan works very hard and I love working hard.
"I am satisfied with my performance. I feel a bit tired now, but that’s normal after so many days of intense training.
"I felt good in the middle of the field. My teammates are extraordinary champions and playing with them is easy because they put you in the ideal conditions to do so."
Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti hinted Becks could make his Serie A debut in Sunday’s showdown with AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico, although these first 45 minutes in Dubai suggested top form is a long way off still.
Becks added: "I am ready to face my first match in the Serie A with the Milan shirt. It will be very exciting for me, regardless of whether I play or not.
"I am happy to be in this team and the days of intense work have really been very useful."
Related links:
Team
Personal
Also see:
Beckham, who has joined the club on loan from MLS side LA Galaxy, started the match in midfield alongside Andrea Pirlo, Massimo Ambrosini and Ronaldinho.
He displayed a few good touches with his famous right foot before being substituted at half-time by Mathieu Flamini.
Ronaldinho gave Milan the lead from the penalty spot after 63 minutes, but Collin Benjamin equalised four minutes later to send the match into a penalty shoot-out, which the Rossoneri got the better of their German opponents prevailing 4-3 on penalties.
"Felt just like when I was at (Manchester) United," Beckham said. "They had families here sitting with the kids and it brings back memories.
"Penalties aren't the best way to win a game, but I'm glad that we won. AC Milan works very hard and I love working hard.
"I am satisfied with my performance. I feel a bit tired now, but that’s normal after so many days of intense training.
"I felt good in the middle of the field. My teammates are extraordinary champions and playing with them is easy because they put you in the ideal conditions to do so."
Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti hinted Becks could make his Serie A debut in Sunday’s showdown with AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico, although these first 45 minutes in Dubai suggested top form is a long way off still.
Becks added: "I am ready to face my first match in the Serie A with the Milan shirt. It will be very exciting for me, regardless of whether I play or not.
"I am happy to be in this team and the days of intense work have really been very useful."
Please subscribe to our RSS feed to receive more updates. You can also subscribe by Email and enjoy our latest posts sent directly to your inbox.
Related links:
Team
Personal
Also see:
