Finding it difficult to fit in???

mufu baba iyabo · Post by **mufu baba iyabo** » Tue Dec 30, 2003 11:27 am

Beckham 'is no Makelele'

Helguera, Beckham and Carlos celebrate Real's win over Barcelona
Real Madrid midfielder Ivan Helguera has praised David Beckham, but hinted the Spanish Champions are missing Claude Makelele.
While not doubting Beckham's effectiveness going forward, Helguera rubbished suggestions the England international has filled the gap left by Makelele's departure to Chelsea.

"I can assure you he doesn't reach Makelele's level no matter what people say," Helguera told Spanish newspaper Marca. "He is not as defensive as Makelele.

"He has a lot of ability, he helps in defence and has spectacular skill with the ball in attack. He is playing great football.

"You can see he's happy and that allows him to give his best."

Helguera also praised Beckham's workrate.

"The thing is that at Manchester United in English football, it seemed that he didn't run much and that Manchester beat their rivals with ease.

"However, he always worked hard when he played against us and I don't know how people can say they didn't expect to see the player that they do now."

PaJimoh · Post by **PaJimoh** » Tue Dec 30, 2003 11:59 am

It depends on how you look at it. Beckham cannot be compared to Makelele when it comes to defensive mindset and ability. Neither can Makelele be compared to Bekham when it comes to offensive mindset and football skills.
Overall Beckham is the better baller, IMHO.

sunshinestar · Post by **sunshinestar** » Tue Dec 30, 2003 1:15 pm

Beckham does the job he is assigned to do in Real absolutely well.He is and never can be a Claude Makelele. Rather he is a perfect crosser of the ball.