It was good to hear David Beckham pay tribute to Manchester United’s record-breaking feat of winning their 19th League title and hit back at the critics who have questioned the quality of Sir Alex Ferguson’s latest trophy winning side.

“People have criticised the team this season but you can’t ask much more than winning the Premier League and getting to the Champions League final. They are up there with the best United teams of all time,” says United’s former hero.

And Becks has no doubt that Sir Alex has the team to beat Barcelona in Saturday’s Champions League final at Wembley and is clearly 100 per cent behind his former boss. “As a manager he can’t get any better than he already is. But I’m sure it will be an unbelievable moment if he picks up that cup by beating Barcelona who have been talked about as one of the greatest teams ever. If any team can beat Barcelona at their peak it is Man United.

“It’s going to be a great atmosphere, especially being at Wembley. And I just hope United can do it.”

Meanwhile, Beckham is back at Old Trafford on Tuesday night to play in the testimonial for his old pal Gary Neville and clearly relishes the chance to pull on the famous red shirt again. “It’s always amazing wearing a Manchester United shirt. Just talking about it gives me goose bumps. Man Utd have always been my team. It’s going to be emotional and an amazing night for Gary.”

The Testimonial against Juventus will reunite members of the famous Class of 92 including Beckham, Neville Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt. And Fergie urges United fans to support the occasion declaring: “When a player like Neville gives you 20 years of his life I think we should show our appreciation.”

– BY JOHN GUBBA