Soccer: Becks likes life in Spain

David Beckham has claimed he is so happy at Real Madrid that he wants to live in the Spanish capital even after his playing career has finished.

The England captain is in his third season with Real and has yet to win a trophy with the club, adding to speculation that he would return to England to play for Arsenal or Chelsea.

But the former Manchester United midfielder said he had no intention of leaving Spain.

"I will always keep my house in London, but I will never hide the fact that I want to be here for the rest of my career," he said. "I want to continue here at Real and continue being England captain.

"My children are in school here and I will remain for a couple of years, even after I finish my career. I am happy.

"I played many years in England. Now I am delighted to have experienced the atmosphere of another country and have a different life."

Beckham said it might have been easier had there been more stability in the club's coaching. Vicente Del Bosque was sacked before Beckham had played his first game and several other coaches have come and gone since.

- INDEPENDENT