Last Updated: Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:13
David Beckham admitted he was surprised to play 89 minutes on his debut for AC Milan as he helped the Rossoneri to a 2-2 draw at Roma.
The England midfielder was expected to start the game on the bench, having not played a competitive game since October, but coach Carlo Ancelotti decided to play him in a three-man midfield.
Ancelotti said he gave Beckham a start as "a reward for settling in so quickly" and commented that the 33-year-old had shown he was "intelligent, serious and committed" since arriving at the San Siro.
Beckham was replaced by former Arsenal man Mathieu Flamini a minute from time and the on-loan England man was pleased with how he felt on his return to action.
The former Real Madrid star said: "I was very happy that the manager kept me on for as long as he did because it is important for me to get match fitness. To be honest, I felt better than I thought I would feel.
"I was surprised to have started the game but I am happy. Playing out there is what I love doing and I enjoyed it.
"I didn't think I would last that long but I felt so good. At half-time I felt really strong. I think the manager saw that I felt good, that I still had energy and he kept me on."