Beckham Snubs Europe To Stay With LA Galaxy

The former England captain David Beckham has signed a new deal to stay with his football team in Los Angeles for another two years.

The 36-year-old decided to stay with the LA Galaxy after turning down a chance to move back to Europe with French team Paris Saint-Germain.

"This was an important decision for me," Beckham said in a statement.

"I had many offers from clubs from around the world, however, I'm still passionate about playing in America and winning trophies with the Galaxy."

It took him five seasons in the US before Beckham helped the club win the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup in November.

Beckham opted against moving to France or returning to the Premier League because his children have settled in California and his wife Victoria's fashion empire continues to expand.

"I am thrilled that David has chosen to rejoin the Galaxy, especially as he had numerous options where he could continue his career," Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena said.

"I felt that he was one of the best players in all of MLS last season and we could not have achieved the success that we did without him. We look forward to trying to replicate that success this season with David once again in a Galaxy uniform."

Beckham announced a five-year deal with LA Galaxy in early 2007, in a move that was expected to be worth up to $250m (£160m) with salary and endorsements.

He is unlikely to play for England again, but still hopes to earn a place in the British Olympic football team at the London Games by playing regularly for LA Galaxy.