David Beckham trains with Arsenal reserves

January 4, 2008

Times Online and Agencies

David Beckham trained with Arsenal for the first time on Friday as the England midfielder keeps fit for international duty.

Beckham, 32, asked Arsene Wenger for permission to train with the club during LA Galaxy's off-season break and has made his first appearance at their London Colney base, near his home in Hertfordshire.

The former Manchester United player's decision to work with the Premier League leaders is part of his bid to win his 100th cap in England's friendly against Switzerland on February 6.

He hopes that training with Arsenal will show Fabio Capello, the new England coach, that he is serious about extending his international career.

Beckham will mainly train with Arsenal's reserves and will join up with the first team occasionally but only when they are short of players. He is expected to return to LA Galaxy in mid-February in time for their pre-season friendlies ahead of the MLS season, which starts in late March.