David Beckham receives lifetime achievement award

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony to be held tomorrow night in Birmingham will honour David Beckham with a lifetime achievement award.

The former England captain is one of the most popular and talented footballers of his generation, if not the most. His remarkable record both in the beautiful game and as an ambassador for British sport was the reason for the award, according to a BBC spokesperson.

During his football career, Beckham has been the most-capped outfield player and won six Premier League titles and the Champions’ League crown while at Manchester United. In 2001 he became the BBC’s, Sports Personality of the Year and moved to Real Madrid as the result of a £25 million transfer, where he was instrumental in winning the Spanish league.

Previous winners of the prestigious award over the years include George Best, Sir Alex Ferguson and Seve Ballesteros. Editor of the Sports Personality of the Year  Carl Doran told reporters ‘both on and off the pitch, David’s record is remarkable’, adding the award is a fitting recognition of an outstanding contribution to international football during a long career.

He added David’s tireless work as British sport’s ambassador and his place as a role model for young players as well as fans will make sure he gets a wonderful reception in Birmingham. Beckham was born in Leytonstone, East London, and made his England debut in the match against Moldova in 1996.

Subsequently he won 115 caps and captained the England team 59 times. His ten years with Manchester United saw the club win nine major trophies before his transfer to Real Madrid in 2003. Beckham was a key member in the Team England bid for the 2018 World Cup, lost to Russia amid much controversy and accusations of vote-buying.

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