Beckham returns to winning ways at AC Milan

David Beckham made a winning return to the San Siro in Rossoneri colours as he helped the Italian giants beat  Genoa 5-2 in yesterday’s evening kick-off, on the Italian festive day of the ‘Befana’.

Beckham donned the number 32 shirt once more as he commenced a second loan spell with AC Milan and the England veteran played 76 minutes in his return to Serie A.

The former Manchester United player slotted into a more offensive position in Leonardo’s team, and Milan’s manager was quick to praise the versatility of Beckham.

Leonardo said: “He had a week where we tried him in every role. He has extraordinary quality and tactical intelligence.”

Indeed within five minutes of the game Beckham fired in a delightful cross for Borelli. The Milan striker had his effort superbly stopped by the Genoa goalkeeper, Marco Amelia.

Another Beckham cross helped win the home side their second penalty of the match. Ronaldinho had tamely missed his first spot kick but the Brazilian maestro made no mistake with his second attempt of the night, lashing the ball past Amelia.

When the Rossoneri won their third penalty in the 76th minute, Beckham appeared to be one of the candidates to convert Milan’s spot kick. However the 33-year-old declined the offer to cap a perfect return  with Klaas-Jan Huntlaar ultimately making it 5-1 to the home team.

Current England manager and former AC Milan manager, Fabio Capello, was present at the game and kept a watchful eye on Beckham. The English midfielder insists he plans to take it “one game at a time” as he seeks to cement his place in the England squad travelling to South Africa this summer.

“I’m very happy to have played for Milan again,” Beckham said. “I think it’s always important that I work hard and perform well and I felt that I did that but it’s just one game.”