AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said Monday that he wants on-loan L.A. Galaxy midfielder David Beckham to stay on at the club, and that he will be disappointed when, or if, he returns to California in March.

Speaking on Italian radio the day after Beckham scored his first goal for Milan goal in a 4-1 win at Bologna, Ancelotti said: "'He knows our desire, if he goes it will be a disappointment because of the contribution he is giving [in terms of] quality and balance." He praised Beckham's merits as "his ability, intelligence, professionalism and humility."

Ancelotti originally seemed indifferent to Beckham's signing, commenting blandly that he would be a useful addition to the roster, but hinting that he would see little playing time. But the Englishman has started all three games since joining the team, which is unbeaten since his arrival. Milan is in third place, six points behind leader Inter, and three behind second-place Juventus. Read the original story...