Beckham to play on beyond 2010

(GSM) – David Beckham is expected to play on after this summer’s World Cup despite claims to the contrary which suggest he is ready to retire.

The former England captain will turn 35 next month, and has spoken of his desire to continue playing for his country beyond South Africa 2010.

The reports have suggested Beckham wants to come back to the United Kingdom and spend more time with wife Victoria and children Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz, having achieved everything he wants to in the game.

But the source close to Beckham said: “It is nonsense.”

Beckham, who plays for the Los Angeles Galaxy in Major League Soccer, is currently two games into another short loan period at AC Milan and is due to face Siena tomorrow.

Already, the midfielder has made such a positive impression that Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has claimed he would offer another invitation next year.

The present deal is aimed at giving Beckham the best possible chance of staying in Fabio Capello’s squad, and becoming the first England player to appear at four World Cups.

Whether he makes it or not, Beckham will then have a short break from the game before returning to the LA Galaxy, where his present deal still has two seasons to run.

Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani insists Beckham will always be welcomed to the club with open arms.

And Galliani has sounded out the 34-year-old for another stint at the San Siro beyond the current campaign, claiming the former Manchester United and Real Madrid performer has licence to return Serie A giants in the future.

“Milan’s doors will always be open for him, in July, next January or whenever he wants,” the Milan chief said of the LA Galaxy midfielder.

“He’s the man I court most. He’s a fantastic footballer. You should see how he trains.”