Swedish coach SVEN-GÖRAN ERIKSSON "will try to convince" former England captain DAVID BECKHAM to join him at UAE club Al Nasr after he signed an 18-month contract as a technical adviser, according to Patrick Johnston of REUTERS. When asked about the possibility of signing free agent Beckham, Eriksson said, "If he wants to come I'm sure they would open the gates for him. I still speak with him, although I don't know where he will finish up." Beckham, 37, has been "linked with moves to France, England, China and Australia" (REUTERS, 1/22). In Abu Dhabi, John McAuley noted Beckham "represents one of world football’s most coveted players." He is said to be considering offers from 11 clubs, and would therefore "presumably prove unattainable for Nasr." While the arrival of Eriksson should have little impact initially, the former Benfica, Lazio, Sampdoria and Man City manager confirmed that he has taken the position to help guide the club toward a "more prosperous future." Eriksson said, “It’s a long-term job. If you want to change things in football it’s not done overnight” (THE NATIONAL, 1/21).
