Beckham: Rooney´s ban ´harsh´

David Beckham says England striker Wayne Rooney’s three-match ban for his red card against Montenegro will be a “big loss” to the team.

Rooney’s punishment has spawned plenty of discussion, with many players and managers offering their opinions.

The former England captain, who will line up for LA Galaxy against Harry Kewell’s Melbourne Victory on December 6, is among those who feel that Rooney’s ban was harsh.

“I was surprised he got three games,” Beckham told Sky Sports.

“This day and age these things happen and I think in the past players that have done the same have got either one game or two games at most, so it’s obviously disappointing to see that.”

“Wayne’s done so well in the last couple of months and he’s been exceptional for Manchester United and England, and it’s going to be a big loss.”

“Having Wayne miss those first three games is disappointing for the fans, the team, the manager and obviously for Wayne as well.”

“I personally still think he should still go because he’s one of the best strikers in the world and he’s such a great talent.”

Beckham hit the headlines himself in the 1998 World Cup when he was sent off while playing for England for kicking out at Argentina’s Diego Simeone, and the LA Galaxy man believes a temper is often what makes good players great.

“With great talents you see the likes of Zidane and players like that that have got that hunger that sometimes gets you into trouble, but that’s what makes these great players,” he insisted.

“All the great players have got that. You’re never going to take that out of Wayne and I don’t suggest anyone tries because it’s what makes him the player he is and what makes him loved by so many fans and so many Manchester United fans as well.”