Milan comeback may seal Beckham's World Cup place

David Beckham may have sealed his place in the World Cup after being promised regular, first-team football with AC Milan. The LA Galaxy player is back in Italy for his second loan spell and could play for the Rossoneri against Genoa at the San Siro tonight.

England boss Fabio Capello has warned Beckham he needs to be playing regularly in Europe if he is to make it to the squad for South Africa. But Milan coach Leonardo revealed he expects Beckham to be more than just a bit-part player as AC look to hunt down bitter rivals Inter at the top of Serie A, and the former Brazil star also hinted at the possibility of a permanent move for Beckham after the World Cup.

Speaking about Beckham, Leonardo said: "Not many English players do well in Serie A. That is true. But Beckham has adapted his life here. He has created a good relationship with everyone. He trains hard, he sacrifices himself. He works hard and does everything we ask. It is impossible for a player like him not to be successful. He is always motivated which is very special."