Beckham returns to Real Madrid squad after knee injury

MADRID, Apr 20 (Reuters) David Beckham has returned to the Real Madrid squad for tomorrow's game at home to Valencia after six weeks out with a knee ligament injury.

The former England captain suffered a strain to the lateral ligament in his right knee in a league match against Getafe at the start of March and has not played since.

Beckham, who will turn 32 next month, is leaving Real Madrid at the end of the season after agreeing to sign a five-year deal with MLS side LA Galaxy worth 250 million dollar.

The midfielder will have eight opportunities to play for Real in the league before he leaves for the United States.

Fullback Roberto Carlos (Achilles tendon injury) and midfielder Emerson (illness) will miss tomorrow's game, as will suspended defenders Alvaro Mejia and Ivan Helguera who were sent off during last weekend's defeat at Racing Santander.

Reuters TB GC1941