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Arsene Wenger admits regret in never signing David Beckham for Arsenal
ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger has revealed he wanted to bring David Beckham to the Emirates in seasons gone by.
Beckham announced his retirement from professional football yesterday, having enjoyed a number of spells training with Arsenal despite never pulling on the red and white shirt.
But Arsene Wenger has today admitted a tinge of regret over Beckham's retirement, claiming he had wanted to bring the 38-year-old to the North London outfit earlier in his career.
Asked if he had ever been close to signing Beckham, Wenger said: "Yes I was, but it was at the period where we could not afford to pay him.
"After that it was a question mark as well before he went to (AC) Milan, but he was in a position where we did not really need (players).
"It was always a pleasure to have him here for his attitude and behaviour, he gained respect from everybody through his dedication and commitment.
If Beckham had turned out for the Gunners, it may have caused controversy with Manchester United fans with him having come through the ranks at Old Trafford.
Wenger went on to hail the England star's dedication to the sport, and said sometimes he forgets quite how much the London-born player had achieved.
"I have a huge respect for his passion for the game, his huge commitment, his mental strengths because he was under a lot of pressure throughout his career, and his dedication. I think that is where he is an example.
"What remains in your memory is his genuine commitment and dedication, his natural humility which he always had, that will stay forever.
"You forget sometimes if he has won this championship or that championship, but you never forget how he behaved, and that is a credit to him."