The 34-year-old, starting his second five-month loan at Milan from Los Angeles Galaxy, is especially looking forward to March's second leg in Manchester, having won the 1999 European Cup during his 10-year Old Trafford career.

"When I heard about the tie, I almost cried," Beckham said at his first news conference since arriving back in Milan. "I love the club. It's going to be an emotional night. I have never returned to Old Trafford in six years. It has always been a special place in my heart."

Beckham, hoping to secure his England World Cup place by again playing in Europe during the US close season, denied team-mates might be put out if he took their place in the side.
"I am not expected to start the games. I just want to be part of the team. Players are not jealous. They were happy to see me back," he said.

"I missed the team, the players, the fans. The group is very similar. It is the same at Manchester United, it never changes," he added.

Milan, second in Serie A, are without long-term injury victim Massimo Oddo, so new coach Leonardo has hinted he is considering playing Beckham in an unaccustomed right back role.

Such a move would be unlikely to damage Beckham's dream of playing in a fourth World Cup in South Africa in June after England coach Fabio Capello said he would be in the squad if he was fit and in form.

"I would be happy to play in any position, in defence, in attack," said the bearded Beckham. "I need to work hard. It's not guaranteed (that I'll go to the World Cup). It's not that easy. I have to work on my fitness."