Fernandez backs Beckham to shine

Former Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Fernandez has backed David Beckham to play a key role in the club’s quest for silverware.

Beckham signed a five-month deal with the Ligue 1 leaders on transfer deadline day, later revealing he would be donating all of his salary to a Paris children’s charity.

And despite several newspapers in France dismissing his arrival, former PSG player and coach Fernandez has given his support to the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star.

“To see David Beckham arrive is enormous,” he told RMC.

“This is both a sporting and a marketing coup. He can contribute to the group both in training and on the pitch because of his experience.

“He has outstanding quality in his technique and passing.”

The 53-year-old said the club did well to keep such a high-profile move under wraps, but added that he expected Beckham would take a while to reach match fitness.

“In sporting terms he signed for five months,” Fernandez said.

“But in reality, Paris will only be able to use him for three months. In February, he will have to spend time regaining his fitness.”