Beckham rejects retirement jibes

Updated 15.30 Sat Jul 14 2007

Keywords: LA Galaxy, David Beckham, football, sport, England

David Beckham has insisted that his move to Los Angeles Galaxy is not a sign that he intends winding down his footballing career.

The 32-year-old former England captain has begun his five-year contract in Major League Soccer (MLS) and is relishing the chance to bring the so-called Beautiful Game to the masses.

"It's always been about the football. That's always been the reasoning behind every move in my career. It's always been about the football" - David Beckham

The former Manchester United midfielder, who helped Real Madrid reclaim the Primera Liga title in Spain last month, has moved to dismiss any suggestions of him being more interested in a Hollywood career.

Beckham, who will make his first appearance for his new club against Chelsea in a friendly next Saturday as long as he overcomes an ankle problem, said of the retirement jibes: "Until the first game starts I'm sure a lot of that will be going through people's minds.

"I've had a lot of that since I signed for the Galaxy, people questioning the reasoning behind me coming to America and playing my career in America.

"But for me it's always been about the football. That's always been the reasoning behind every move in my career. It's always been about the football."

He continued: "I'm very proud of what I've done in my career so far.

"I've won everything possible in England, I've won a league title now in Spain and I've successfully played for my country for 11 years and captained them for six years.

"I don't see this period now as a winding down period. Many people might say that but many people that are saying that have not played in the MLS.

"I haven't played in the MLS but I know the expectations and I know the enthusiasm that the American people have got and especially the people in Los Angeles and at the Galaxy.

"They want to take soccer to a different level and I want to be a part of that. I may be 32 years of age but I'm as fit as I was when I was 22 and I'm as eager as I was when I was 14.

"I'm ready for it and I've never listened to negativity. Everyone here at the Galaxy is very positive about me being here."