Last Updated: Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:23
David Beckham insists he will not celebrate if he scores for AC Milan against Manchester United out of his 'respect' for the club.
The England international made 394 appearances for the Red Devils before leaving for Real Madrid in 2003. Beckham has since signed for Los Angeles Galaxy and joins Milan on loan in the MLS' off season.
As a result he will go up against his former United team-mates when the Italians face them in the Champions League at the San Siro next Tuesday, with the return leg on March 10 at Old Trafford. However Beckham claims he will not make a big deal of scoring against Sir Alex Ferguson's men if he manages to find the net in the tie.
He told Inside United: "Sometimes emotion can get the better of you when you score but I do not think I would celebrate. I respect the supporters and the club.
"The relationship I have with the fans is still important to me. I went through some difficult times but they never stopped supporting me.
"I would not have got through everything without them. To me they are the best fans in the world and the support they gave me week in, week out was incredible. Nothing will ever better that."
He added: "I always wish I was part of Manchester United, it is just in me. Even though I am not there any more, I am still a huge fan.
"Coming to terms with not being a United player was certainly the toughest thing I've ever had to deal with. When you are a Manchester United player and a Manchester United fan you never want to play for any other club. United will always be such a special place to me."