Teddy Sheringham has admitted his surprise at seeing former team-mate Sir David Beckham receive a knighthood, recalling the football legend as a playful “school kid”. The former Manchester United star was bestowed with the esteemed honour by King Charles in a ceremony earlier this week.
Beckham was joined by his family, who proudly watched on, including wife Victoria and parents Sandra and Ted. The ex-midfielder was recognised for his contributions to sport and charity. Speaking to Oddspedia, Sheringham fondly remembered a youthful version of the United icon who enjoyed having a laugh with his old colleagues. The former Red Devils forward 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.”
Heaping praise on Beckham, Sheringham added: “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 shared four successful seasons at United, winning numerous major titles with the club. This included the historic achievement of becoming the first English team to secure the Treble: the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Champions League.
The duo made a combined 547 appearances for United and also represented England on the international stage at many major tournaments. Now, Beckham is basking in the honour of his knighthood.
For the latest breaking stories and headlines, sign up to our Daily Express MUFC newsletter, or join our WhatsApp community here.
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 wife Victoria played a part in impressing the King at the ceremony as she designed 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.”