David Beckham’s first appearance for AC Milan was analysed in such detail by the Italian press that we know he made 38 touches of the ball.

He only played the first half of the friendly in Dubai against Hamburg and was steady rather than spectacular. An error in the defensive third has been highlighted by pundits but generally they thought his two crosses, two headers and two tackles showed promise.

“Tactically he is intelligent, he always plays for the team. He will be useful,” said coach Carlo Ancelotti.

A true test could come on Sunday at AS Roma when Milan return to Serie A action after a three-week midseason break.

Beckham may only be on the bench but at least that will give the Italian media chance to analyse their other obsession - the 33-year-old’s tattoos.

Newspapers want to know how much spare flesh he has that hasn’t been scribbled on after speculation he has had another tattoo.

Los Angeles Galaxy will hope it doesn’t say: ‘I love Milan’.

PHOTO:AC Milan’s David Beckham looks on during their friendly soccer match against Hamburg SV in Dubai, Jan. 6 REUTERS/Jumanah El-Heloueh