Soccer: Beckham to miss England opener

David Beckham

David Beckham will be unavailable for England's soccer tour match against the United States on May 28 because Real Madrid want him to continue training with the club despite being suspended for their final game of the season.

The England captain incurred his suspension after being booked for a foul in Real's 0-0 draw against city rivals Atletico Madrid on Saturday and it was thought he would be allowed to join his international colleagues for the start of their US tour.

England manager Sven Goran Eriksson said that Real wanted Beckham to remain with them for the rest of the week while they prepare for their final match against Real Zaragoza.

"Real Madrid want David to train with his club this week," Eriksson told the FA website.

"I know he is suspended for Madrid's final game, but they want him to remain with them where he will train through to the weekend.

"We never expected David to be with us for the first game and I understand and respect their view that they want him with them until the end of the Spanish season.

"I look forward to both David and Michael Owen joining us for the game in New Jersey against Colombia (on May 31) as was always planned."

Real Madrid are already assured of second place in the Primera Liga behind champions Barcelona.

- REUTERS