Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

David Beckham repeats desire to play at the Olympics

 

Pa
Wednesday 02 November 2011 18:31 GMT
Comments
David Beckham insists he can continue to operate at the top level
David Beckham insists he can continue to operate at the top level (GETTY IMAGES)

David Beckham has reiterated his interest in playing for the Great Britain football team at the London Olympics and insists he can still perform at the top level.

The 36-year-old's deal with current club the Los Angeles Galaxy is about to run out and he admits there has been interest from Barclays Premier League clubs as well as Ligue 1 side Paris St Germain.

The former England skipper has been linked with the team for next year's Games and of the possibility of being involved, Beckham told BBC Sport: "We all dream about it and we all think about it.

"If it happens, I'll be honoured."

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder has been playing at the highest level for almost 20 years and he is adamant he can continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

"People have been saying [I am too old] for the last 10 or 15 years and I've still continued to play for my country," Beckham said.

"Right now, I feel fit and still love playing, so I'm not finishing yet."

With his LA Galaxy contract almost up, attention has turned to his next destination whether that be in Europe or staying in the United States.

Beckham insists he has not had any contact with PSG and added: "There is also interest in me staying here and interest going to certain clubs in the Premier League.

"At 36 years old to still have that interest in me is an honour, I'm very flattered by that but right now I'm a Galaxy player and I will continue to be a Galaxy player until we win the league - the MLS Cup - and then we'll see.

"I haven't even sat down and thought about what my options are yet."

He also believes he will know when it is time to quit, saying: "It's always difficult making that decision about stopping but I don't think I'm going to have that problem.

"I think I'm going to know when to finish, but that's not yet.

"As long as I feel I can play at a high level, then I'll continue. Once that changes, I'm going to have to accept I need to stop."

Galaxy host the New York Red Bulls tomorrow in the second leg of their Western Conference semi-final and hold a 1-0 lead.

Beckham also says he might be interested in buying a team in the United States when he gives the game up.

He added: "I have the option and it's something I probably will do. Obviously I have to wait until I finish playing.

"I want to be part of something that is going to grow and I believe that this sport is going to grow."

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in