Ananova:

David Beckham is relishing the chance to play Champions League football again once he returns to AC Milan for his second loan stint in January from the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Milan had missed out on Champions League qualification last season but they are on course to progress from the group stages this time around, allowing the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star to be eligible for the start of the knockout phase in February.

A Champions League winner in 1999 with Manchester United, Beckham said: "I've not been involved for a few years now but I always enjoy Champions League games. They're different from playing the majority of league games."

He added: "They're always special nights and there's always a different atmosphere, especially at big clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid and Milan."

Beckham has been keeping an eye on Milan's early season form in Serie A under new head coach Leonardo.

"Unless I've been playing or training I've watched every game," he said. "I watch every Milan game, every Manchester United game and every Madrid game being an ex-player and a fan of all three teams.

"It's great to watch teams like that and learn from players and teams.

"It was a tough start (for Milan) but that was going to happen but Milan are a great team and it was never going to be a problem."

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