Thaindian News

London, Mar. 7 (ANI): England star David Beckham’s father is “gobsmacked” at the prospect of watching his son play at Old Trafford for the first time in seven years, when AC Milan come calling in the Champions League on Wednesday.

“It’s going to be special because David spent so much time there. He is eager to see everyone at Old Trafford. It’s been a special place for him. When he left United I was devastated. Returning will be great because he’s still a United supporter. He will be choked by it all,” the Daily Express quoted Ted, as saying.

“He loves it in Milan. He enjoys the football and playing alongside players like Ronaldinho. But there are a lot of good players at Old Trafford. It will be a weird feeling. Half of me wants AC Milan to win while the other half will be rooting for Manchester United,” he added.

Ted and David have shared many footballing moments together in a warm father-and-son relationship at the place both regard as their footballing home.

Ted was at the San Siro to see his son’s Serie A side lose 3-2 in a Champions League round of 16 first leg against Manchester United.

But it was always the thought of a return for the ex-England captain to the ground where he forged his name which has been simmering ever since the draw was made before Christmas.

Ted, a life-long United fan, admitted: “I was excited when the draw was made. I texted David straight away. He was gobsmacked. We both were because we couldn’t wait to be involved at Old Trafford.

Beckham Jnr, who still has three United season tickets, knows he owes his dad a lot for his success.

He recalled: “Bryan Robson was my hero and I wanted to wear the No 7. I’d hang a flag in my window with a picture of Bryan Robson.”

“Dad tried to hammer Bryan’s qualities into me - courage, commitment, energy, vision and the ability to inspire players around him. Even Eric Cantona told me ‘Watch the man playing in your position. One day you are going to take his place,” he said. (ANI)