Beckham proud to be back

Updated 12.06 Sat Jun 02 2007

Keywords: Euro 2008, Wembley, Steve McClaren, John Terry, David Beckham, England, football, sport, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy

David Beckham has revealed his pride at being back in the England side after helping Steve McClaren's men to a 1-1 draw against Brazil in their first game at the new-look Wembley Stadium.

Beckham left the field to a standing ovation after being taken off after 76 minutes having set up his successor as captain John Terry for the opening goal of the game on 68 minutes with an inviting free-kick.

"It is always nice to have the support of the fans and I have had that throughout my career. It was amazing out there for me" - David Beckham

McClaren and his men looked to be heading to a much-needed win only for substitute Diego to grab an equaliser right at the death. But not even that could take the gloss off Beckham's return after almost a year in the international wilderness.

The 32-year-old former England captain, who has now made 95 appearances for his country, said: "It was such an historic night for all of England and it was great to be out there. It is always nice to have the support of the fans and I have had that throughout my career. It was amazing out there for me.

"Things are in the past now and I am happy to have been part of this historic occasion. It was good to be back in the England squad and it was nice to be with the team and just be part of the set-up again."

Beckham has also revealed that a call of nature was the reason for him being at the back of the team when England walked out at Wembley for their first match since the stadium underwent its £790 million redevelopment.

The former Manchester United midfielder, who is heading Stateside in the summer to play for Major League Soccer outfit Los Angeles Galaxy, said: "I didn't deliberately go to the back of the line-up when we walked out.

"I was in the toilet so that was the reason I was at the back! It was nothing on purpose."

McClaren, who went out of his way to praise Beckham's part in England's goal, is refusing to be drawn on whether Beckham will be a long-term part of his plans when he joins LA Galaxy in July.

The England boss said: "There has been a great debate. But we picked David Beckham because of David Beckham the player.

"Since the new year his performances have been fit and strong and he deserved his place in the team on performance.

"Our only focus is on Wednesday and a good performance. I'm not looking beyond that. The players worked very hard for a result."