Los Angeles Galaxy's David Beckham reacts after a teammate missed a goal during their international friendly soccer match against AC Milan in Carson, California, July 19, 2009. [Agencies]
LOS ANGELES: David Beckham was ushered away by security guards after he confronted fans who provided an ugly reception for his return to the Los Angeles Galaxy home ground for a friendly against AC Milan on Sunday.
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Los Angeles Galaxy's David Beckham reacts after a teammate missed a goal during their international friendly soccer match against AC Milan in Carson, California, July 19, 2009. [Agencies] |
Beckham was playing at home for the first time since he returned to the Galaxy after he controversially extended his loan spell with Milan into the first half of the Major League Soccer season.
The former England captain had also seemingly fallen out with his team mates with Galaxy captain Landon Donovan reportedly questioning his effort and leadership last season.
Beckham was constantly booed on Sunday by many in the 27,000 sell out crowd, with some holding derisive banners. One said "go home fraud", while another read "Hey Becks, here before you, here after you, here despite you".
Beckham was visibly annoyed at the frequent booing and had to be escorted away by security as the players left the field at halftime when he walked over to an area of seats to confront jeering fans. Security was tightened in the second half.
Beckham managed to calm some of the hostility when he helped set up both of the Galaxy's goals in the 2-2 draw.
Filippo Inzaghi put the Italian giants ahead again in the 61st minute only for Bryan Jordan to connect on a Beckham corner in the 65th minute and equalise at 2-2.
After the second goal, Beckham turned in the direction of the stadium that had been the most vitriolic and simply shrugged his shoulders. He was substituted after 75 minutes.
He said last week he hoped to spend a similar six-month loan spell in Europe next year in order to satisfy England coach Fabio Capello he is ready for the World Cup in South Africa.
AC Milan coach Leonardo, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti, suggested before the game he was open to such a move.