DAVID BECKHAM completed his first day’s training at Tottenham yesterday, with manager Harry Redknapp still hopeful a loan deal for the former England captain can be resolved.
On Monday, the Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder was given the green light to join in with the Spurs squad after completing a series of fitness tests at the club’s training ground in Chigwell, Essex.
The 35-year-old was all smiles as he took part in an extended session at Spurs Lodge.
Beckham, wrapped up warm in a light blue hat, sporting the number 77, Spurs training top and gloves as coaches Clive Allen and Joe Jordan put the players through their paces.
Former Real Madrid teammate Jonathan Woodgate, Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane, who have both been linked with loan moves away from Spurs during the January window, and England striker Jermain Defoe were among those to share a joke with the Beckham as they took part in small circle exercises and other fitness drills.
It is understood that Beckham is keen to play for Spurs before returning to the Galaxy before their first match of the new Major League Soccer season against the Seattle Sounders on March 15.
As things stand, Beckham will only be at the club to train until February 10, with Los Angeles said to be concerned over insurance issues should their midfielder suffer another injury like he did when on loan at AC Milan ahead of the World Cup.
Beckham left Spurs Lodge just before 3pm, and will be back again for more of the same today as the squad prepare for Sunday’s clash against his former club Manchester United at White Hart Lane.
Redknapp revealed Spurs had not yet given up all hope of brokering a deal with Los Angeles Galaxy to get Beckham into action on the pitch.
“There is nothing at the moment, but we will see what happens, who knows?” said Redknapp.
‘‘I am not dealing with that side, but it is good to have him here.
‘‘David is a top player and a fantastic boy.
“Everyone respects David and looks up to him so it was good to have him here today.”
There is no doubt the addition of Beckham to their playing staff would certainly be something of a coup for Spurs as they prepare for a Champions League last 16 clash against AC Milan.
Assistant coach Joe Jordan added on BBC Radio 5 live: “David has a wealth of experience and no matter how well you are playing, when you go into the second half of the season and you have got Champions League and Premier League, which is a bit new for us in the same season, I think you need that little bit of nuance.
“To put that in your dressing room, whether the player starts or not, is vital and if we are lucky enough to get David Beckham on a short-term basis, it would be great value.”
Tottenham were also linked with a move for Beckham’s former Manchester United team-mate Phil Neville.
However, Everton manager David Moyes rejected any suggestions the veteran midfielder would leave.
Moyes told the club’s official website, www.evertonfc.
com: “I spoke with Harry Redknapp briefly before the transfer window opened.
“(Tottenham chairman) Daniel Levy and (Everton chairman) Bill (Kenwright) had an even briefer conversation at our recent game against Spurs and mutually agreed that this would go no further.
“At no time was any offer made – nor would one have been welcomed. Phil Neville is our captain and is an important part of the Everton setup.”
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