David Beckham backs Remain in the EU referendum – read his statement in full

'For our children and their children we should be facing the problems of the world together and not alone'

David Beckham (REX Features)

David Beckham has backed Britan remaining in the European Union.

The former England and Manchester United player made a rare political intervention on Tuesday morning when he posted a statement to his Instagram account.

Recalling his time playing for various European clubs and living in various European cities, the 41-year-old said: "We live in a vibrant and connected world where together as a people we are strong. For our children and their children, we should be facing the problems of the world together and not alone."

Read Beckham's statement in full:

"I'm passionate about my country and whatever the result of Thursday's referendum, we will always be Great. Each side has the right to their opinion and that should always be respected whatever the outcome of the European Referendum. I played my best years at my boyhood club, Manchester United. I grew up with a core group of young British players that included Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and the Neville Brothers. Added to that was an experienced group of older British players such as Gary Pallister, Steve Bruce and Paul Ince.

Now that team might have gone on to win trophies but we were a better and more successful team because of a Danish goalkeeper, Peter Schmeichel, the leadership of an Irishman Roy Keane and the skill of a Frenchman in Eric Cantona.

I was also privileged to play and live in Madrid, Milan and Paris with teammates from all around Europe and the world. Those great European cities and their passionate fans welcomed me and my family and gave us the opportunity to enjoy their unique and inspiring cultures and people.

We live in a vibrant and connected world where together as a people we are strong. For our children and their children we should be facing the problems of the world together and not alone.

For these reasons I am voting to Remain."