Becks to return to Old Trafford in Europe's colours

David Beckham is to line up against a Manchester United side at Old Trafford for the first time since he left the club for Real Madrid in 2003.

The former England captain has agreed to play for a Europe XI coached by Marcello Lippi in a match against the Premiership leaders on March 13.

The match has been organised to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, which gave birth to the European Union, and mark half a century of United competing in Europe.

Beckham, a huge favourite with United supporters before his 25-million-pound move to Spain, will play for Europe. The England international has returned to Old Trafford before to represent his country, but has not faced United since leaving three years ago.

Lippi, who coached Italy to World Cup glory in Germany in the summer, said he had no hesitation agreeing to take part when approached.

"I accepted the invitation immediately," said Lippi at a special press conference at Old Trafford after Manchester United had beaten Manchester City 3-1 to go nine points clear at the top of the Premiership table.

"I'm delighted by the prospect of such a game and I am really looking forward to taking on my great friend Sir Alex Ferguson."

Manchester United chief executive Sir David Gill said he expected the match to attract a capacity 76,000 crowd to Old Trafford and raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity.

"European nights at Old Trafford always create a special buzz," said Gill. "Fans and players can feel the excitement these games generate."

"Manchester United is proud of the fact that it was the first English club to enter European competition and it is a privilege to be able to host such a special game."

"I'm sure the night will bring back many special memories of glorious nights in our past."

"Our thanks go to UEFA, the European Union and the clubs and players that will take part in the event. We hope to raise a lot of money to benefit Europe's young people."

UEFA'S chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson said the game was an excellent way of combining two celebrations.

"It seems very appropriate to mark a political landmark with a sporting event like this, especially bearing in mind that Manchester United are one of the clubs who have made such a rich contribution to a football competition that has also helped to bring the people of Europe closer together," said Olsson.