One of the main reasons given by Becks for deciding to stay at Milan beyond the March 9 loan deal was to improve his 2010 World Cup chances.

"The standard is different and it's important for him at this moment to play in Europe,” explained the England manager.

“Not only in Milan but in Europe because it's different. MLS is not the same level as the Europeans - Italy, Spain, Germany or England, for sure."

Beckham will return to LA Galaxy in July to play the remainder of the MLS season and become a free agent in November.

At that stage he is expected to sign a permanent contract with the Rossoneri, effective from January 2010.