David Beckham to play his last game

  David Beckham is to quit Los Angeles Galaxy at the end of the season - just months after signing a contract for a further year with the Major League Soccer side

The 37-year-old former England captain has spent the past six years with the Galaxy, but will bow out following their championship game against Houston Dynamos on December 1. But he paved the way for a return to the MLS in the future - as a club owner.

"I've had an incredibly special time playing for the L.A. Galaxy, however, I wanted to experience one last challenge before the end of my playing career," Beckham said on the team's website. "I don't see this as the end of my relationship with the league as my ambition is to be part of the ownership structure in the future.

"In my time here I have seen the popularity of the game grow every year. I've been fortunate to win trophies, but more important to me has been the fantastic reception I've had from fans in L.A. and across the States. Soccer's potential has no limits in this wonderful country and I want to always be part of growing it."

Beckham, 37, scored seven goals and set up five others in 28 games with the Galaxy this season.

  The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder is not likely to be short of offers once his time in the MLS comes to an end. He denied links with Australia's A-League at the weekend after Football Federation of Australia said preliminary talks had taken place.

Beckham was an MLS Best XI selection in 2011 and a three-time MLS All-Star. In 98 regular-season matches with the Galaxy, he tallied 18 goals and 40 assists, which is good for fourth-most in team history.

   He also started 16 playoff matches for LA since the 2009 season and recorded eight assists while helping the club capture the 2011 MLS Cup title at Home Depot Center with a 1-0 win over the Houston Dynamo.The London native set an MLS record by becoming the first player to register an assist in five consecutive postseason games, Beckham is a veteran of three World Cups for England and is the most capped field player in England history with 115 international appearances. 

   He has scored 17 international goals and worn the captain's armband on more than 50 occasions for his country.The set-piece specialist began his illustrious playing career with Manchester United, where he appeared in 265 matches and scored 62 goals while helping the Red Devils win six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and a UEFA Champions League title. Beckham will face his final on-pitch challenge when the Galaxy host the Dynamo looking for their second consecutive -- and fourth overall -- MLS Cup title.

Categories: Beckham , Transfer News