MLS boss plays down Beckham's chances Tuesday, January 16, 2007 03:48 [IST]
Los Angeles: Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber
denied Monday that he has made any statements regarding David Beckham's
possible departure from Real Madrid before his contract expires June 30.
The issue became more intense over the weekend when Real
Madrid coach Fabio Capello said Saturday that Beckham would not play again for
the Spanish club, merely train with the team until his deal expires.
While Beckham's wife Victoria visiting Los Angeles last weekend,
speculation began of a Real contract buyout by the Los Angeles Galaxy, who made
a five-year deal worth 250 million dollars with the 31-year-old English
midfielder.
Such a move would seem logical given the huge interest in Beckham around the
entire MLS. It would allow Beckham to play with the Galaxy when the MLS season
begins in April rather than waiting until mid-season for his US-league debut.
But Garber backed off any notion of such a move and dismissed any comments
attributed to him or anyone in MLS regarding a possible early arrival of
Beckham in the league.
"David Beckham remains a member of the Real Madrid club until his
contract expires June 30," Garber said in a statement.
"Unless otherwise informed, we are looking forward to welcoming David
this summer following the end of his contract with Real Madrid.
"There have been many recent reports from the news media that have
attributed incorrect quotes from my office, including fabricated quotes that
were attributed directly to me earlier today," he said.
"I am out of the country in Mexico and have not spoken with any
journalists since the afternoon of January 13. We hope that journalists will be
respectful and professional with covering this story," he said.
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