Becks relishing United return

Beckham: Relishing United return

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David Beckham has admitted he nearly cried when he discovered AC Milan were paired with Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League.

Beckham is back with the Rossoneri for a second loan spell and the Italian giants were paired with his old club in the last 16 of Europe's prestigious club competition.

The England international began his career at Old Trafford and made over 300 appearances for the Red Devils prior to leaving the Premier League giants for Real Madrid in 2003.

The games with United are Beckham's first against his former club and he admits his emotions got the better of him when he found out he would be returning to the Theatre of Dreams.

"When I knew the draw, I nearly cried," revealed Beckham.

"I love the club. It's going to be an emotional night.

"I have never returned to Old Trafford in six years. It has always been a special place in my heart."

Prospects

Milan are currently second in the Serie A standings and the veteran midfielder, who joined the club on loan last year, sees no reason why they cannot wrestle the Scudetto from city rivals Inter.

The San Siro outfit have changed somewhat since Beckham's last spell with Paolo Maldini retiring, Kaka joining Real Madrid and Carlo Ancelotti heading to Chelsea.

However, he believes there is enough talent there to ruffle Jose Mourinho's feathers between now and the end of the season.

"Milan can surely win the Italian league. I've found a squad really similar to last season's team," he continued.

"Surely the absence of Paolo (Maldini) is felt. Kaka, the best world's player is gone to Madrid. And Carlo's gone to Chelsea.

"These are important changes, but a big club is able to face them. Milan suffered for this at the beginning, but after a certain period, now they are playing in a really good way."