David Beckham: Ankle Injury Brings Newfound Fan Love

by Yuliya Talmazan | March 16, 2010 at 09:54 am

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Fan Love For David Beckham In The Face Of Serious Injury

David Beckham might be out of the 2010 World Cup, but he is regaining the love of his fans after much hate and agitation in recent years. AC Milan midfielder does not stand a chance to play for England in the World Cup this year after tearing his Achilles tendon in the game with Chievo Verona on Sunday. Beckham flew to Finland to have surgery done on his left ankle. He will now be sidelined for six to eight months to recover.

And while injuries are nothing new to Beckham, the outpouring of fan support is something that British player has not seen a lot of in recent years. Beckham has been repeatedly battered by soccer fans for his club transfers and promotion deals outside soccer field. His own life and the well-being of his wife and children has been threatened throughout his career.

Beckham's effigy was hung by British fans after being red-carded against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup. In the game with Portugal at Euro 2000, fans shouted out abusive words at Beckham, prompting him to respond with his middle finger. But, the shouts were so caustic, many British newspapers defended Beckham and called for fan abuse to end.

But, the ankle injury and Beckham's devastation in the face of his World Cup dreams being shattered again are making fans more sympathetic.

Even U.K. Prime Minister Gordon Brown has sent Beckham a message to wish him well in his recovery. And, British poet Carol Ann Duffy dedicated a poem titled "Achilles" to Beckham.

Meanwhile, Beckham released the following thankful statement on his website:

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their messages of support, they mean a lot to me. The operation was a success and I'd like to thank Dr. Orava and all the medical staff who looked after me during my time in Finland. I'm feeling positive and now concentrating on getting back to full fitness over the coming months."

National team coaches still hope Beckham would be able to play for England at Euro 2012.