Galaxy honour Beckham on MLS opening day

LOS ANGELES, Mar 03 (AFP): Major League Soccer (MLS) kicked off a new season on Saturday with 10 games and a tribute to football great David Beckham whose arrival in 2007 helped usher in a new era for the then upstart league.

A statue of the former England captain was unveiled by the LA Galaxy outside their stadium in an emotional ceremony prior to their 2-1 victory over the Chicago Fire.

Beckham's former Galaxy coach Bruce Arena and teammate Robbie Keane, as well as Beckham's wife, Victoria, attended the ceremony.

"From day one when myself, Victoria, and the kids arrived in this city we felt at home and for that we will be forever grateful," said Beckham, who is set to become an MLS club owner when expansion side Inter Miami joins the league.