Thaindian News

Los Angeles, July 20 (ANI): English football star David Beckham was involved in an ugly confrontation with fans during his home return game here, as the friendly match between LA Galaxy and AC Milan ended in a 2-2 draw.

Beckham attempted to jump over a barrier as he left the field at half-time to approach a section of the crowd that had been jeering him.

But he was held back by security staff, members of whom were also needed to restrain an angry fan who left his seat and rushed towards the footballer, The Independent reports.

Beckham said he had tried to shake a supporter’s hand.

“The majority of the fans have been great,” Beckham said afterwards.

On the boos, he added: “It’s to be expected. Sometimes it goes beyond it. I tried to shake one of the guy’s hands, but he didn’t want any of it. That’s the way it is.”

Beckham received an unfriendly welcome from disgruntled fans at his first home game after returning from a five-month loan spell at AC Milan.

A hardcore section of the crowd booed Beckham every time he touched the ball and held aloft signs reading “Go Home Fraud” and “23: Repent” in reference to his shirt number.

Another read: “Hey Becks, Here Before You, Here after You, Here Despite You” while one stated: “Is evil something u are…or something u do?”

Earlier this year, Beckham indicated he wanted to stay in Milan rather than return to America, stating that the standard of play was far higher in Italy. The apparent snub has angered some LA fans.

Throughout the first half of the game he was subjected to jeers and obscene chants. After the referee blew for half time, Beckham tried to hurdle an advertising boarding and appeared to make a “come on” gesture towards fans.

In response, one man left his seat, jumped down onto the pitch and attempted to run towards Beckham. At this point security intervened and escorted Beckham to the changing room, while removing the fan from the pitch.

Despite the incident, Beckham returned in the second half, and hugged several of his former AC Milan teammates before gesturing towards the rowdy section of the crowd. (ANI)