Becks backing Reds for glory

David Beckham is backing Manchester United for Champions League glory following their four–goal demolition of AC Milan at Old Trafford last night.

It was not the way Beckham hoped his first appearance as an opposition player against United would end up.

But with his own interest at an end, the former England skipper wants the Red Devils to reclaim a trophy he helped them win in 1999.

“When you get knocked out of a competition you kind of hope that the team that knocks you out goes all the way,” he said. “I really hope they go all the way.”

United have an excellent chance of reaching their third successive final.

Although Park Ji–sung and Darren Fletcher wrapped up victory, Beckham’s England team–mate Wayne Rooney did the damage last night.

Rooney scored at the start of both halves to kill off the tie, which United won 7–2 on aggregate, to take his tally for the season to 30, just 12 short of the amazing number Cristiano Ronaldo recorded two seasons ago.

“His performance was a continuation of his form in the last few months – just sensational and unbelievable,” said Sir Alex Ferguson.

United would have expected to be lined up against Ronaldo in the quarter–final draw next Friday.

Instead, Real were dumped out of the competition by Lyon, who joined Arsenal, United and Bayern Munich as the quartet who are definitely through to the last eight.

“I was surprised at Real Madrid’s result,” said Ferguson. “But European football is very tough now. In the last few years English clubs have done well and I think they will be there again.

“It doesn’t matter who we play in the quarters. We are there and hopefully we take advantage.”