Beckham plays 89 minutes in AC Milan debut

ROME — David Beckham was plesantly surprised by his unexpected start.

Beckham started in his AC Milan debut Sunday, playing 89 minutes in a solid if not outstanding performance in a 2-2 draw against AS Roma.

The star English midfielder was replaced by Mathieu Flamini in the 89th minute with the score tied. He exited mostly to boos from the Roma crowd.

"I felt good in the game, very strong and I enjoyed it," Beckham said. "I enjoyed playing with these players and in this city."

Beckham joined Milan on a two-month loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer, hoping to stay sharp so he can earn a spot on the English national team.

"I don't want to have regrets in my career," Beckham said. "I am very lucky to have this chance with this great club and I want to enjoy it."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said Saturday it would be "difficult" to start the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player because he had been inactive for two months. However, Beckham lined up in his traditional spot on the right wing, leaving Flamini and Massimo Ambrosini on the bench at the start.

"I never expected to play from the beginning of the game," Beckham said. "I've been working on my fitness and I felt good during the match. The manager told me before the match (that I would be starting)."

Wearing No. 32, Beckham was positioned alongside Andrea Pirlo and Clarence Seedorf in midfield, with Kaka, Ronaldinho and Pato up front in attack.

"He showed what he showed in training, that he is disciplined and plays the ball simply," Ancelotti said. "Beckham is a Milan player; he will play with us for two months."

Beckham rejected speculation that he plans to remain with Milan beyond the loan period.

"My contract runs through March 8," he said. "After that I have to go back to the Galaxy."

The 80,000-seat Stadio Olimpico was nearly full. Although there was no sign of England coach Fabio Capello, Italy coach Marcello Lippi did attend.

"(My aim) is to play as many games as possible, work on my fitness and to be a part of this Milan team," Beckham said. "I am happy to be playing with such a great club and these great players."