Fergie slams Becks' 'pre-occupation with fame' in autobiography

Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has reportedly criticised his former protegee David Beckham's apparent pre-occupation with fame in his autobiography.

At Manchester United, Ferguson developed Beckham into one of the world's most recognisable sportsmen, but the midfielder left United in 2003 for Real Madrid under a cloud after his relationship with the manager broke down.

According to Stuff.co.nz, Ferguson, who famously kicked a boot at the former United and England player's head, revealed in his autobiography that he felt uncomfortable with the celebrity aspect of Beckham's life, adding that Beckham was the only player managed by him who chose to be famous and known outside the game.

Stating that Beckham 'surrendered a part of his career' by moving to the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007 after four years at Madrid, the Scot also said that Beckham was also dismissive of his criticism, adding that it might have been possible that Beckham was starting to think he was no longer needed to track back and chase.

According to Ferguson, Beckham's relationship with former Spice Girl Victoria (now Beckham) changed everything, and for the worse.

In the book, Ferguson detailed Beckham's insubordination, saying that Beckham was 'swallowed up' by publicity agents, adding that the end of Beckham's career in United came when he tried to take over the dressing room from under his authority.