Becks hails 'best move ever'

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the England skipper underlined his delight at the way his Real career had begun, and was confident he would continue to develop.

"I'm very happy with the way it's gone, that's one thing I had to prove when I came to Real Madrid was that I could play football and hopefully I've done that," said Beckham.

"I want to carry that on now, I am enjoying the city and playing football with these players.

"If I have become a better player it's because of the players around me, they have made me step up a level.

"I hope I have become a better player because I always try to improve myself on the pitch, and playing in the Spanish league is of course different."

Probed again about rumours linking England team-mate Michael Owen with a move to El Santiago Bernabeu, the former Manchester United star claimed there was little he could add to the stories but did concede he would advise any player to follow in his footsteps after his experience in Madrid.

"To be honest with you it's unfair for me to comment because he is a Liverpool player.

"There will always be speculation linking great players to great teams.

"But if anybody asked me if I enjoyed my time at Real Madrid I would say it's the best decision I have ever made. Of course he [Owen] could play in any team in the world."

Beckham also revealed that he was revelling in his new role in central midfield for Real, and felt happier playing there than on the right flank.

"I am a lot happier now. I played on the right side with my country and Manchester United for so many years.

"This was a change that I'm enjoying immensely since I've come to Real Madrid, being able to play in the middle and with these players is amazing."