Despite still being one of the world's most marketable athletes, David Beckham will have to prove it on the field if he wants to extend his stay with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Major League Soccer president Mark Abbott believes the club will make its decision on whether to attempt to re-sign David Beckham based on soccer ability and not his celebrity status, according to an Associated Press report.
Abbot said ""there have been so many benefits'' to the league's acquistion of Beckham. The England international is in the final season of a five-year, £19.7 (€22.3) million contract.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder turns 36 next month and has been criticised for leaving the Galaxy twice on loan to AC Milan. He missed most of the 2010 season after tearing an Achilles' tendon while playing in Italy. Beckham also attempted to join Tottenham Hotspur on loan during the Galaxy's offseason but after the club stood firm on its denial, Beckham only trained with the London club.
This season Beckham has committed to spending a full year with the Galaxy, who acquired the popular player in 2007. While he has appeared a step slower than previous seasons, his vision on the pitch is still excellent having assisted in three of the team's goals. He is also still a threat from set-pieces.
Beckham will travel next week to London for the royal wedding on April 29. Los Angeles plays at Dallas on May 1, but Abbott said the league does not have an issue with Beckham missing the game.
(Source: Goal)