by Matthew Wilkins

Created on: January 08, 2010

David Beckham is a globally renowned, international superstar. As the most successful English football player of all time, Beckham is widely regarded as an ambassador to the modern game. His passion, determination and consistency have inspired youth players and football fans worldwide.

Beginning his career in 1991, signing for Sir Alex Ferguson's youth team, David Beckham's childhood dream had become a reality. After winning the FA Youth Cup in May 1992, Beck’s made his first team debut as a substitute in a League Cup game against Brighton & Hove Albion. Following a short loan spell with Preston North End, Beckham played his full, Premier League debut against Leeds United, on 2nd April 1995.

During his first full season as Manchester United’s right midfielder, Beckham helped the team to win both the League title and FA Cup. The young sensation was quickly becoming more popular amongst fans and fellow players and as a result, he was voted PFA Young Player of the Year in 1997.

After a series of exceptional performances and further silverware, including the famous treble won by Manchester United in 1999, Beckham joined Real Madrid in 2003 for a fee of £25m. Controversially, Beckham’s relationship with Alex Ferguson had been suggested as the reason for the move abroad, as was a growing lack of support from opposing fans and the media, following David’s sending off in the FIFA World Cup Quarter Final against Argentina in 1998.

Whilst playing for Real Madrid, Beckham enjoyed success by helping the Spanish giants to win the 2006-07 La Liga title and the Supercopa de Espana in 2003. On 11 July 2007, Beckham was signed by Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy and made his debut as a substitute against Chelsea on 21 July. More recently, in January 2009, and in order to remain fit during the MLS off-season, Beckham joined AC Milan on loan. After impressing the management at the Italian club, a unique timeshare agreement was reached between Milan and the Galaxy, which would see Beckham play in the MLS until the end of 2009, returning on loan to play in Serie A from January 2010.

Since making his international debut on 1 September 1996 against Moldova, Beckham has become one of the most accomplished English national players of all time. Having earned 115 full international caps, Beck’s has made it clear that he wants to play for England at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa: with former Real Madrid boss Fabio Capello at the helm, it is widely expected that Beckham will feature in some way.

Beckham is married to Victoria Adams, formerly a member of the Spice Girls and is a father of three; Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz. The Beckham brand is recognisable on a global scale, with clothing and fragrance lines, to accompany the many endorsement deals that Beckham has. A tattoo and style icon, Beckham is considered an A-list celebrity and even hires former SAS guards as security in the UK.

Aiming to continue playing soccer for the foreseeable future, the Beckham legacy has yet to reach its capacity. A leader, icon and hero, David Beckham has influenced and inspired people across the world. Undoubtedly one of sport’s greatest athletes, he has fulfilled a career spanning three decades and it can only be assumed that his success will continue long after he has hung up his boots. A former England captain, David Beckham is an excellent role model for both the young and old.

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