US coach Bob Bradley has backed LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham's loan move to AC Milan. He said: "It shows that he is still very serious about his national team career. I think that in order to continue to be considered for selection, it's important that he is still playing.

"Our league takes a break. So the opportunity for him to play at a club like Milan will keep him on Fabio Capello's radar screen. Certainly people in MLS would hope that he comes back to the league and has a great season next year."

Reflecting on US soccer in general and Beckham's influence since his arrival in 2007, Bradley added: "US soccer continues to improve. David Beckham did bring a great deal of attention to our league.

"Certainly, if you look at the history of the league, there's been many talented international players and I think that will continue.

"But the attention that comes from having someone as big as David Beckham, has also brought attention to the American players, which is pretty good for everyone."