Beckham's AC Milan debut draws praise, cynicism from Italian media
London | January 12, 2009 4:58:50 PM IST
Ace England midfielder David Beckham's first appearance for Italian club AC Milan drew both praise and cynicism in the country's media today. The England midfielder made a surprise start and played almost the entire game in AC Milan's 2-2 draw at Roma. Gazzetta dello Sport gave Beckham a six out of 10 in its game ratings, and offered a humorous remark about the loan signing from the LA Galaxy, The Independent reported. "He played for 90 minutes, which no-one expected," the Milan-based publication said. "But nothing to show as a replay for a Pepsi ad. However, he sacrifices, he crosses, he strikes, helps with humility. As his first Serie A appearance, he did just enough," it added. Corriere dello Sport highlighted the performances of goalscorers Mirko Vucinic and Alexandre Pato. "You expect Beckham and you find Vucinic and Pato," said the paper. "On the night of the Serie A debut of the English star, it's the Montenegrin (Vucinic) and the Brazilian (Pato) that decide with a brace apiece." National newspaper Corriere della Sera focused on Beckham's physical condition. "Beckham plays, Pato scores. The six-star Milan (Kaka, Ronaldinho, Pato, Clarence Seedorf, Andrea Pirlo and Beckham) draws at Roma. The Spice Boy stays on the pitch for almost 91 minutes," the paper said. (ANI)
Watch News Videos
| 
