Passion for the beautiful game kept recently retired David Beckham in peak condition for his entire career, according to Manchester United legend Ronny Johnsen.
The Norwegian defender was part of United’s treble winning side in ’99 playing alongside Beckham, who announced his retirement after a successful season at Paris Saint Germain.
Beckham won six Premier League titles in ten years at Old Trafford before spells with Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan and PSG and Johnsen was always impressed by his professionalism.
“I’ve been lucky to play with him,” he told the club website. “He has always been such a professional to the game.
“That was something that impressed me every time and to go on and be so professional until 38 and still have the lifestyle that he has is unbelievably impressive.
“You can go and play football as long as your heart is there and he has had his heart there for so many years.
“All these things were happening around him but his heart was in playing football – that’s what he loved and still loves.”
Beckham, along with Spice Girl wife Victoria, has always been in the media spotlight, but Johnsen is impressed with he has juggled a celebrity and professional career.
“There were always so many things happening around him but he always managed to be 100% on the pitch,” he added.
“That’s the way he is. He is such a nice guy and I think he showed that to so many people around the world and that’s why he is so popular.”
Johnsen was also a teammate of the retiring Paul Scholes and was delighted to see the 38-year-old finish his career on a high note, with an 11th league winners’ medal.
“Paul has been an absolutely fantastic player for the club for all those years, when you win something when you retire as well, it’s always a good way to go.”
Image courtesy of CanalPlus, via YouTube, with thanks.
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