Clement: Beckham already having PSG influence
442 Staff - Friday 15 February 2013, 12:28
David
Beckham is already having an influence on Paris Saint-Germain
following his free transfer from Los Angeles Galaxy, according to assistant manager Paul Clement.
The media gathered to see the former England captain meet up with
his new team-mates for the first time at PSG’s training ground on
Wednesday.
Beckham has made headlines in France for donating his salary to a
children’s charity, and Clement is enjoying the extra publicity.
“We see David brings a lot of attention but we are really excited to have him as a player,” said Clement.
“He has been here a week now, and my initial impression is really positive, a total
gentleman and real professional who just wants to keep playing.
“He is a fit guy, there is no question about it, but he did not do
much after the end of the season so when you get to his age you have to
recover. But I don’t think it will take long and we he will be involved
very soon.”
Beckham is hoping to play a part in PSG's title push. The Paris
giants lead the Ligue 1 table by six points going into the final 14
games.
But according to Clement, the former Manchester United, AC Milan and
Real Madrid man will probably not be ready in time for the trip to to
third bottom Sochaux at the weekend.
A confrontation with exiled Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey
Barton is on the cards instead when the league leaders host Marseille
on February 27.
“Sochaux is a maybe, I don’t think he would be fit enough to start this weekend but it is a possibility,” said Clement.
“He could be involved but it depends how he responds to training this week. He is a certainty to be against Marseille though.”
By Tom Sharp