Beckham stakes his claim in the US

David Beckham calls time on his days as a Real Madrid player, despite being recently out of favour, his performance at the end of the season left Real wondering if they should have tried harder to keep Beckham on contract for a little longer. In the final season as a Real Madrid player, he has played a significant role in Madrid's success in winning the league trophy.
His move from Manchester to Madrid in 2003 was almost predictable as one of the few clubs that could handle a player like Beckham, with maybe a top Italian or Spanish club being the only other prospects. However the move to the USA as a career move is somewhat less predictable in terms of football played on the pitch. Looking at the wider picture however reveals the huge challenge of bringing soccer into the mainstream of American life.
Having had to forego his 'lucky' number 7 jersey at Madrid, due to the fact that Raul already laid claim to it, number 23 was chosen as the successor... This has continued with the 23 shirt being his number at his new club LA Galaxy.

Beckham and Owen return

England beat Estonia by an emphatic 3 goals to none, Beckham in his usual style set up two of the goals (one for Crouch and one for Owen) with his world famous deadly crosses. Injury continues to be a worry as there is still concern over the ankle that has been bothering him for some weeks. The night could not have been more perfect for England with the triumphant return of Beckham and the first England goal for Michael Owen since long-term injury took him right out of the game for so long (some thought too long - thankfully they were wrong).

England draw with Brazil

England have victory against Brazil snatched away in the dying seconds at Wembley.
McLaren brings Beckham back into the squad for the first time since Beckham stepped down as England captain after the disappointing World Cup performance last summer.
"I brought Beckham back because he was playing well," said McClaren.
His return to form continued, setting up John Terry for a headed goal from a free kick. This paves the way for the next crucial European qualifier against Estonia on Wednesday.