Beckham starts first competitive England match in 2 years in WCup qualifier against Andorra

Beckham’s 1st competitive England start in 2 years

WEMBLEY, England — David Beckham started his first competitive game for England in two years, a World Cup qualifier against Andorra on Wednesday night.

The Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder made his 112th international appearance, 13 shy of the English record set by goalkeeper Peter Shilton.

The 34-year-old had started only exhibitions for England since a European Championship qualifier in Estonia in June 2007. Beckham played in central midfield in place of Gareth Barry, who was suspended, and Michael Carrick, who is injured.

England entered with a 6-0 record and the lead in Europe Group Six.

Beckham spent the last five months on loan to AC Milan and is to rejoin the Galaxy for its July 16 match at the New York Red Bulls. He hopes to return to AC Milan in January.