Former Manchester City star Stephen Ireland has revealed he will never forget David Beckham’s generous gesture. The ex-midfielder disclosed that, despite turning out for the Citizens between 2001 and 2010, he grew up a passionate supporter of their fierce rivals, Manchester United.

The Republic of Ireland international admitted he was completely overwhelmed by Beckham when attending a trial at United as a youngster. Ireland, now 39, also recounted a story from later in his career, where the former England captain once again showed his true colours.

Speaking to Ladbrokes at the launch of Ladisfaction, Ireland said: “Growing up, I was a Man United fan. The whole family were and kind of pushed it down your throat! I went to United on trial and it was the last day where I had to get autographs. I’m waiting for all these autographs off all the players.

“Dwight Yorke, Ryan Giggs, and all the players came out and gave me their autographs and I was like, ‘wow!’ But then out came Beckham and I just completely froze. I couldn’t ask for an autograph. He walked out, full of style, the way he carried himself, everything…I was just in awe.

“He came out and I never opened my mouth and I was completely in shock. He knew what I was doing, but I couldn’t open my mouth to ask him. He went to his car to leave and as I’m stood there going, ‘I missed an opportunity’, he came back to me and said, “did you want me to sign that for you?'”

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“He signed it, then went back to his car and left. So, he went to his car and thought of me stood there and came back out for me. That stuck with me for such a long time.”

While that encounter was memorable, Beckham announced himself again to Ireland later in their careers. This came after the England hero had departed the Premier League for La Liga to play for Real Madrid.

Ireland was shocked that Beckham even knew who he was, with the now-Inter Miami co-owner oozing his trademark sophistication and style.

“I was with Emile Heskey in Miami one pre-season,” Ireland continued. “We went to an exclusive members club, but there was no one in there but me and him. And I was like, ‘What are doing here? This is a buzzkill, this is not fun, Emile.’

“Then out of nowhere, I felt a hand hit my back and someone kind of grabbed me and I turned… it was David Beckham. I remember thinking, “How does he know me?’

“He left well before I broke onto the scene so never in a million years did I think he would know me or want to talk to me. And then we just got talking about all sorts. Kids, family, we had the same tattoo artist, we both loved spending time in LA.

“Then he went and sat down because he was having a meeting with people that were helping him buy Inter Miami. Emile just started laughing at my reaction. But I still couldn’t believe he knew me.”

Ireland left City in 2010 following 176 appearances, moving on to join Aston Villa. He subsequently represented Newcastle United, Stoke City and Bolton before retiring in 2018.