Beckham on hs way to Africa Via Milan

David Beckham appears pleased to be back in Milan and talks down his recent foot injury as he resumes training with the Rossoneri.
As always cameras were snapping and there are reports that Milan have hired armed guards specifically to protect Beckham during his loan period in Italy.

Meanwhile Fabio Capello has been reportedly backing Beckham in an interview with Gazzetta Dello Sport. Capello said: 'If Beckham plays and if he is fit I will certainly take him to South Africa. '
This is exactly what the player will be wanting to hear and he will no doubt be eager to get on the pitch. His first game could be Jan 10th against Juventus, but my money is on David wanting to make the squad for the earlier home game on Jan 6th against Genoa. Once again, football fans will have the opportunity to see one of the worlds great players in a befitting setting for a few months at least before the excitement of World Cup 2010 kicks in. The prospect of AC Milan with David Beckham in the squad promises a Happy New Year to Milan and England fans if all goes to plan.

Becks set to return to Old Trafford

Not for Man U, but for AC Milan as the two sides have been drawn to play each other in the Champions League in Mid-March 2010. Beckham has never returned to play against Manchester United since leaving the club in 2003 and can be assured of a warm reception.

There are a few hurdles to be overcome before this dream becomes a reality, Beckham (34) must remain fit, and has to be registered by AC Milan by February 1st as a member of the AC Milan Champions League squad as one of three additions allowed.

Manchester United do not have a particularly good record against AC Milan, and will be looking to stop Beckham and the AC Milan team in their tracks.

Beckham backs 2018 World Cup bid

It is well-documented that the England bid to host the 2018 World Cup has not been plain-sailing with Prince William being drafted in to the team, and now Beckham has been called upon to lend his considerable weight to the bid.
Having secured the 2012 Olympics, it seems the foot has gone off the gas a little and momentum has been lost. The bid has been criticised for it's lack of substance.
David is currently promoting the bid in South Africa where the draw for the 2010 World Cup group stages has just taken place. England's group stage is as below:

• Saturday 12 June, Rustenburg: England v USA
• Friday 18 June, Cape Town: England v Algeria
• Wednesday 23 June, Port Elizabeth: Slovenia v England

On the face of it, the draw looks good for England's chances of qualifying with possibly the USA being the biggest threat which is probably preferable to being drawn with France, Spain or Germany at this stage. However, there are three games to be played and anything may yet happen...

Sadly, during this promotional tour, David learned that his Grandad (Joseph West, 83) passed away, yet he has opted to stay on the tour as long as the funeral is not timed to take place before his planned return. Joseph is said to have been influential on the young Beckham's playing career. Also during this tour, David has spoken about his asthma which although no secret, has not been openly discussed before.

Beckham has also recently expressed a desire to continue playing for England as long as he is able, showing no intention of retiring from the international scene which seems to be the current trend amongst internationals. He also hinted that this coming stint in Milan would be his last separation of this type from the family, hinting at long-term plans to remain based in the USA where his family are now firmly rooted.