Soccer Extreme : Furious LA Galaxy fans launched a scathing protest against David Beckham for attempting to engineer a permanent move to AC Milan. The MLS side took on Japan’s Oita Trinita in a friendly last night but large areas of Galaxy's 27,000-capacity Home Depot Centre were left empty as fans stayed away.Scroll more ...
Crowd puller: No Beckham, no fans at the Home Depot Center in LA for the Galaxy's match against Oita TrinitaSome supporters who did turn up wore masks and donned t-shirts with the words "Let Beckham Go" scrawled on the front in a clear swipe at the 33-year-old's antics.
Last year, games featuring Beckham regularly sold out because of the star's huge appeal among American fans.
But the midfielder has been on loan at Italian giants Milan since January during the MLS off-season and Galaxy supporters snubbed their side’s return to action against Oita yesterday.
Beckham has been in sensational form for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, scoring two goals and proving a smash hit with fans and teammates alike.
But his spell at the San Siro is due to end on March 9, when he is expected to return to LA.
However, his impressive performances have led to Milan attempting to extend his stay in Italy – and Beckham is determined to seal a long-term switch to Italy.
The game between Galaxy and Oita was a dull affair, with the Americans overcoming their opponents 2-0.
Edson Buddle gave the home side the lead in the 44th minute, blocking Yoshiaki Fujita's errant pass, before going on a breakaway and placing a shot beyond goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa.
And ex-Manchester United youth player Jovan Kirovski converted a penalty in the 53rd minute to seal the victory.
Meanwhile, Milan vice president Adriano Galliani insists talks over Beckham's move remain positive.
He said: "In the past few hours we have taken steps forward.
"We are more confident now."
Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi added: "I would like it if he stays with Milan because his passing is essential."