David Beckham believes his
imminent move to America will have a positive effect on his fitness
levels, and that his international aspirations should not suffer as
a result of joining LA Galaxy.
The Real Madrid star is widely expected to be named in Steve
McClaren's England squad later on Saturday for the upcoming
friendly against Brazil and Euro 2008 qualifier against
Estonia.
Beckham's inclusion would mark a dramatic turnaround for the player
who was axed from the England setup following the World Cup finals
and then told he would never play for Real again after agreeing his
move to America.
However, an impressive run of form during Real's Primera Liga title
bid has led to speculation that his international career could also
be on the brink of a remarkable rejuvenation.
The former international skipper is just six caps short of a
century of appearances for his country, and Beckham insists a more
relaxed schedule in Major League Soccer could aid his quest to
recapture his place in the England setup.
"The (MLS) season is shorter, we only play 30 games a year so we
get more time off," Beckham told the British Radio. "I'll be a lot
fitter, still as fit as I am now, maybe more fit.
"The training will be difficult in America, the humidity and
weather is going to be a lot hotter and different to Europe.
"So I still feel I'll be able to play for England if it ever came
up again."
Beckham has also revealed that he spurned approaches from two
Italian sides and other English clubs when deciding to join LA
Galaxy in January.
The Real star's quest to raise the profile of the game in a country
enamoured with Basketball, Baseball and American Football has been
the subject of intense analysis, and Beckham admits he is relishing
the imminent challenge.
Indeed, the midfielder has now explained that he rejected rival
offers from prestigious sides in order to pursue his American
dream.
"I had offers from two big clubs in Italy and offers from clubs in
England but I just felt it was the right time to pack up and
leave," Beckham added.
"I was honoured to have played for Manchester United for so many
years and obviously Real Madrid for four years.
"But I wanted a different challenge and to me the biggest challenge
was going to America and playing in the MLS and living a different
lifestyle. I'm looking forward to it."
Both Bolton and Milan are believed to have been interested in
recruiting Beckham on a free transfer.
