Real Madrid coach Queiroz says Beckham working hard to fit in

Real Madrid's coach said Monday that David Beckham is experiencing some problems communicating with his new teammates as he works hard to fit into the all-star lineup of the Spanish soccer powerhouse.

But Carlos Queiroz said he expects a positive contribution from Beckham in Tuesday's pre-season match against J-League club FC Tokyo. "He practised well today," Queiroz told reporters at Tokyo's National Stadium. "We expect him to play well but he's only been with the team for four days and he's working very hard to fit in."

Real Madrid arrived in the Japanese capital on Sunday for the second leg of a promotional tour of the Far East.

Beckham made his much-anticipated debut in Saturday's 4-0 win over a Chinese select team in Beijing on Saturday. He played 73 minutes but failed to score.

Beckham has looked hesitant in two practice sessions in Japan but Queiroz said it's nothing to be concerned about.

"Of course, there are some communication problems," added Queiroz. "But we know he'll be able to overcome them."

Real Madrid signed the England captain for $56 million last month on a transfer from Manchester United. Queiroz said Monday he understands Beckham's desire to play in Spain.

"When a player reaches the level of David or Figo or Zidane I think they want to prove something to themselves," said Queiroz. "I think this is why we see players like Ronaldo and David move to other clubs because it is important for them to challenge themselves."

One concern for Queiroz in Tuesday's match will be the condition of Zidane. The French midfielder, who didn't complete Monday's practice, has been hampered by a sore left thigh and could miss the game against FC Tokyo.

"My thigh is not in the best possible condition," said Zidane. "Tomorrow's game is only a pre-season match so there is no point in taking any unnecessary chances at this point."

Zidane, who helped France win the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European championship, said in China last week that he would retire when his Real Madrid contract expires in 2005.

The 25-member Real Madrid touring lineup also includes stars Ronaldo, Luis Figo and Raul Gonzalez.