London, Nov 12: English football star David Beckham has received a clear message about his place in the Italian club AC Milan pecking order after being told that he is “probably not in the class as a player of Ronaldinho or Kaka”.

The midfielder also knows that his chances of featuring regularly in Serie A will depend upon his fitness when he arrives in Milan, The Telegraph reported.

“There is nobody in football who can say anything against David as a footballer. He is a fantastic professional, dedicated to the game. A great player,” said Milan director Umberto Gandini.

“He is probably not in the class as a player of Ronaldinho or Kaka because his role model took over a lot of his football ability, but he is one of the few who kicks the ball in a fantastic way still.

“We are very honoured that he chose Milan – we think we can give him what he is looking for – an environment where he can train with the top players and get back into top shape and be competitive for England selection and be a contributor to AC Milan on the pitch," he added.

Although Beckham is likely to agree a minimum six-month deal with Milan, beginning in January, the actual loan period will be curtailed to three months so as to fit in with his schedule with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Gandini said that England manager Fabio Capello spoke to Milan only after the deal had been established, but was delighted to learn of Beckham’s decision. (ANI)