Just two months into his LA Galaxy career, England ace David Beckham has already paid back most of his £16.5 million MLS contract.

His move has sparked a huge surge in ticket sales, merchandising revenues and television coverage, even though he has featured in only four competitive games.

MLS chiefs have been thrilled by the dramatic boost in income, and Beckham's No 23 Galaxy jersey is the top-selling sports jersey with the giant Sports Authority chain, outstripping the leading replica kits from basketball and American football.