David Beckham has made his first appearance for Italian giants AC Milan. The England international made his debut for the Serie A side after passing a late fitness test and featured in manager Carlo Ancelotti's starting 11. With the scores goalless at half-time, the former Real Madrid and Manchester Untied midfielder was substituted.
AC Milan defeated Hamburg 4-3 on penalties in Dubai after Collin Benjamin cancelled out Ronaldinho's second-half goal in the friendly fixture.
Beckham picked up a thigh injury in training yesterday, which prompted Ancelotti to leave him out of his initial squad. However, the midfielder passed a fitness test this morning and started the game.
Beckham joined the Italian side on loan from his current club LA Galaxy in the US after stating his desire to keep fit in a bid to impress England manager Fabio Capello. When the three-month deal expires in March, Beckham is expected to return to LA Galaxy when the US season resumes.
England's next fixture is a friendly match against Euro 2008 champions Spain on February 11th.
If the 33-year-old plays, he will continue to close in on Peter Shilton's England record of 125 caps.
Roma captain Francesco Totti has said he is pleased about Beckham's bow in Italian football. "He is an icon. I am delighted he has chosen to play in our league, even if it will be for a short spell," Totti said. The pair could meet on the pitch if Beckham makes his Serie A debut when Milan meet Roma on Sunday.
source: http://www.zimbio.com/
