Ex-Real Madrid coach Del Bosque praises Beckham

Former Real Madrid trainer Vicente del Bosque is the latest Spanish football identity to sing the praises of new signing David Beckham.

Del Bosque, who admitted last season he had followed Beckham's career since he was 16, said, "He is playing very well and I'm very happy for him. David Beckham is an excellent player and hopefully he continues being as effective as he has been until now."

He added, "Signings like Beckham are always needed at a club of Real Madrid's size, but it would be foolish to ignore the youth system. I am strong on how much the youth development system can help Real Madrid."