Kyle Walker takes England legend’s old shirt number after completing ‘incredible’ AC Milan loan transfer
KYLE WALKER has chosen the No.32 shirt at AC Milan in homage to David Beckham.
The England full-back has been training with his new team-mates on Saturday after securing a loan move from Manchester City.
Kyle Walker completed his move to AC Milan this week[/caption]
Walker has already trained with his new team[/caption]
He is the fourth Englishman at the Rossoneri, joining striker Tammy Abraham, defender Fikayo Tomori and midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
The six-time Premier League champion will wear the same number on his back as Becks, who scored twice in 33 times for the club whilst on loan from LA Galaxy in the 2009-10 season.
Walker, 34, said after sealing his new Milan adventure: “I chose number 32 for David Beckham.
“Tammy told me I should come. He helped me make a decision.
“The Milan fans here are incredible, hearing them sing, it will be emotional.”
Abraham, 27, has played for Milan since the start of the season, joining the club on loan from Roma.
Milan – who are eighth in Serie A and sixth in the Champions League table – face Parma on Sunday at the iconic San Siro.
Walker, who has appeared 93 times for England, is not expected to play as he needs to complete work-permit details but could appear against Inter in the Milan Derby next weekend.
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David Beckham wore No32 for AC Milan[/caption]
The full-back featured 15 times in the Premier League for City this term.
Upon sealing his exit, he emotionally said: “Manchester City… where do I start? Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true.
“Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League and the famous treble is something I could only have dreamt as a child.
“To play alongside so many talented players has pushed me to be the best version of myself, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had at the Etihad.
“A huge thank you to so many people, the coaching staff, the kit men and all the backroom staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. You make every day enjoyable and provide the platform for us to perform at our best.
“To my team-mates, from the moment I walked through the door I felt at home. Thank you for the great memories and for all the success we have shared together. You are friends, but also family for life.
“To Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me and working so hard to bring me here in 2017.
“Together, we’ve celebrated 17 trophies, and your guidance has helped shape me into the player I am today. I’ll be forever grateful.
“To Annie and all my family who have been there and supported me on this journey thank you.
“Lastly, to the fans—thank you for embracing me as one of your own from day one. Your unwavering support, week in, week out, home and away, will never be forgotten. I wish you all constant success going forward. Thank you, Kyle.”
