Beckham, Donovan want to return to PH

by Camille B. Naredo, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – After defeating the Philippine Azkals in an exhibition game on Saturday, David Beckham, Landon Donovan and the rest of the Major League Soccer Cup champions LA Galaxy said they would love to return to the country.

Donovan, Beckham and their coach Bruce Arena thanked Filipinos for showing excellent hospitality during their stay.

“I would love to come back. It’s been a great trip,” Beckham said in the post-match press conference. “When we found out we were coming to the Philippines, it was one of those trips we were excited about.”

Beckham noted that one of their staff members in Los Angeles is a Filipina.

“She told us all about how beautiful it is (Philippines)… and as soon as we arrived, we knew she was telling the truth,” he said.

Beckham thrilled his fans at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Saturday night, especially when he scored the first goal of the match at the 20th minute.

The LA Galaxy left the Philippines hours after the game.

Sad to leave

Donovan, on the other hand, said “we’re all a little sad to go.”

“We had a really good time,” he said, adding that the trip to the Philippines has been “fantastic.”

“Hopefully one day, we get to come back,” Donovan said.

Head coach Arena for his part, said, “We had a great visit, it’s a wonderful city. The people have been great.”

After arriving in Australia, Donovan tweeted: “Huge thanks to the Philippine people for making us feel like family. Just got to Australia and miss you already. Kita kits!”

Earlier, Donovan said on his Twitter account that he was “quickly falling in love with the Philippines.”

He then added: “Why do all the women wear so much lipstick?”

Other players also turned to Twitter to express their gratitude to their Filipino fans.

Forward Bryan Jordan tweeted: “Just got into our rooms in Melbourne, Australia. I wanted to thank Manila & the Philippines for having us tho (sic). I sure had a great time!”

Defender AJ dela Garza, meanwhile, said: “I’m not sure Australia can top my experiences in the Philippines. But I’ll give them a chance!”

The official Twitter account of the LA Galaxy also thanked the Filipino fans, saying, “We were honored and excited to play for such a passionate crowd. We hope to come back soon!”

The LA Galaxy visited the Philippines as part of their 2011 Asia Pacific Tour. Their last stop is Australia, where they will play against the Melbourne Victory.

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