‘I knew a different David Beckham to the one who just received a knighthood’

David Beckham was knighted earlier this week, with the former Manchester United star receiving the honour from King Charles at a ceremony alongside his family

Teddy Sheringham has admitted to being surprised by the news of Sir David Beckham receiving a knighthood, fondly remembering the football legend as a cheeky “school kid.” The former Manchester United star was handed the esteemed honour by King Charles in a ceremony earlier this week.

The former footballer was joined by his family, including Lady Victoria and parents Sandra and Ted. Beckham was recognised for his significant contributions to sport and charity.

Speaking to Oddspedia, Sheringham claimed he could only picture a younger version of the United midfielder who enjoyed having a laugh with his old team-mates. The ex-Red Devils striker said: “I never thought I’d see Sir David Beckham knighted.

“When I recall my time with him in the Manchester United dressing room, I think of a little lad from Chingford who would always be giggling in the corner with Gary Neville – like two school kids who couldn’t believe they were playing for the club or England. They had their own clique that kept them going and allowed them to become the brilliant players they were.

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“He’s achieved so much in his footballing career and beyond since he retired, but to see David awarded with a knighthood is so surreal, and I couldn’t be happier for him and his family.”

Sheringham and Beckham spent four seasons together at United, claiming countless major trophies with the club. This included the historic achievement of becoming the first English side to secure the Treble: the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Champions League.

The duo racked up a combined 547 appearances for United and also represented England at numerous major international tournaments. Now, Beckham is revelling in the prestige of his knighthood.

The 50-year-old said: “I couldn’t be prouder. People know how patriotic I am – I love my country. I’ve always said how important the monarchy is to my family. I’m lucky enough to have travelled around the world, and all people want to talk to me about is our monarchy. It makes me proud.”

Sir David also revealed that his wife, Victoria, had a role in wowing the King at the ceremony as she crafted the suit Beckham wore to receive his knighthood. He added: “[King Charles] was quite impressed with my suit.

“He’s the most elegantly dressed man that I know, so he inspired quite a few of my looks over the years and he definitely inspired this look. It was something that my wife made me.

“I looked at old pictures of him when he was quite young in morning suits and I was like ‘OK, that’s what I want to wear’ – so I gave it to my wife and she did it.”

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