Beckham`s England recall worries LA Galaxy

London, May 28: Los Angeles Galaxy general manager Alexei Lalas has said he is concerned David Beckham`s recall to the England team might interfere with his appearances for his new Major League Soccer club. Beckham signed a five-year, 250-million-dollar deal with the Californian club earlier this season when he was out of favour with the England team.

However England coach Steve McClaren has decided to recall the former England skipper for matches against Brazil on Friday at Wembley and then a Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia the following Wednesday.

England have four crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers during September and October and that would put Beckham out of domestic action for the Major League Soccer outfit.

Galaxy have sold thousands of season tickets on the back of his arrival, but Beckham`s surprise recall could mean he could be on duty for England against Israel, Russia twice and Estonia instead of playing in the MLS.

Lalas admits they are concerned over Beckham`s international situation from a business point of view, and hinted he may not be released for any non-competitive games.

Lalas, speaking on BBC Radio Five`s Sportsweek programme, said: "From a business perspective it is not the greatest news because we are selling the team with David Beckham and a lot of people are excited to see him play with the Galaxy.

"We will deal with it from a business perspective, but for us to say one of our players is representing England internationally is a great thing.

"There are business challenges but there is an educated public here when it comes to this international game we play. We recognise that when we are going out and getting these stars, they have responsibilities domestically and internationally.

"It is no different than when our American players are called up to play in different tournaments. We lose them at different times and we deal with it on the field and off it.

"I don`t want to stand in the way of a player representing his country but we have to be prudent and understand they have to be the appropriate games. I would think they would have to be competitive matches.

"If it works out scheduling wise, we would be happy to let him go. But he has a responsibility on and off the field to our organisation and to our support. I think he is excited about pursuing that responsibility."

The Galaxy chief added: "He recognises that responsibility to the Galaxy and to the sport in the United States. I represented my country and I know what it means. It is something above money, it is something you take with you forever."

Bureau Report