David Beckham : My Side Book

Surprisingly readable

I was a big fan of Man United a few decades ago and watched matches at Old Trafford during the boom of the young home grown players plus Beckham (Giggs, Butt, Scholes and the Neville brothers). So, this was of interest.

I was surprised by the many personal things revealed in this book especially about Beckham's rift with Alex Ferguson and how it affected him. Also, about his relationship with Victoria and his family. It is refreshingly honest and a reminder that even those who seem externally tough are affected by the same things as the regular guys. Cold shoulder treatment and being in limbo for months without being able to communicate effectively to resolve the situation can lead to depression and outbursts and can affect all areas of our lives. That is how Beckham felt about the Ferguson situation and it's sad that it was never really resolved despite Beckham's clear respect for his manager in earlier years.

It's also sad that, according to Beckham, Ferguson placed so little value on the supporting role of families. He expected everything to be about the game. At the end of the day, football is not what life is all about, even for the likes of Beckham. One day, they retire and at the end of their lives, they will come face to face with their Maker as we all will. Death is the great leveller. God isn't going to be interested in how successful we were at our jobs or how much money we made or how famous we were. He will be asking us whether we have had our sin forgiven by Jesus through his death on the cross for us.

I'm glad that Beckham has a strong relationship with his wife which is laid bare in this book. I was actually surprised by how their relationship started and by how much they clearly love each other. However, I hope Beckham and family will one day realise their greatest need; to be right with God.

Worth reading except for the bad language.