Leonardo - Becks can cope

Milan boss expects former United star to handle the big occasion

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 10th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Leonardo - Becks can cope

Beckham: Back in Manchester

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AC Milan boss Leonardo insists David Beckham will not let his emotions get the better of him at Old Trafford.

The England international returns to the Theatre of Dreams on Wednesday for the first time since leaving Manchester United for Real Madrid in 2003.

While the 34-year-old has never shied from the fact that he remains an ardent United supporter, he will be hoping to dash their UEFA Champions League dreams in midweek.

Milan head to England trailing 3-2 from the first leg of their last-16 encounter, but boast an enviable record against the Red Devils in recent times.

Beckham will be desperate to play a leading role in proceedings as he heads back to familiar surroundings but while Leonardo is confident he could handle the pressure of the big occasion, the Brazilian has skirted around the issue of whether he will hand the experienced midfielder a starting berth.

"For Beckham, it is obviously something special to have the opportunity to play against Manchester United given his history at the club," he said.

"When we saw the draw we knew it would be an unbelievable situation for him.

"But knowing David, and his attitude, I am sure he can cope. And independent of that, he is very important for the group as a whole and we are always grateful for his presence."

Matured

One man who will definitely be involved is Wayne Rooney, with the United striker having shaken off a knee injury.

He will lead the line for Sir Alex Ferguson's men, following his two-goal showing in the San Siro, and Leonardo admits the burly frontman poses the biggest threat to Milan's hopes of turning the tie around.

"Rooney is a fixed point of reference in the United team," he said.

"It is incredible to see the way he has developed, grown and matured as a player.

"Maybe it has had something to do with Cristiano Ronaldo leaving because it meant he needed to step up."

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