Manchester, July 04: England captain David Beckham said a televised farewell to the Manchester United fans and thanked them for saving his career after the disaster of World Cup '98.
Beckham, who became Real Madrid's latest signing on Tuesday, became the most hated player in English soccer after he had been sent off in England's game against Argentina at Saint Etienne.
After his ejection for petulantly kicking Diego Simeone, England played on for 70 minutes for a 2-2 tie but went out on penalties.
Only the support of the United followers maintained his confidence when he was jeered by opposing fans wherever he travelled, he told the club's own MUTV Wednesday.
"The fans were one of the reasons why I kept going after the World Cup of '98. It was a difficult time for me," Beckham said.



"I had strength with my family and the manager. But when I was out on the field, while I was not alone, I needed a lift and the fans did that for me.



"When I look back it made me into a stronger person and a stronger player. That season totally turned my life around. Without the fans, who knows ...?"


Bureau Report