'I played with David Beckham – what he did away from the spotlight proved who he really is'

Roberto Carlos was a big fan of David Beckham's at Real Madrid (Image: AFP/Getty)

Roberto Carlos has named David Beckham as the best player he lined up alongside during his spell at Real Madrid .

The former Brazil star, renowned for his own spectacular free-kicks, highlighted the England midfielder's often overlooked commitment and professionalism. Beckham, who was recently knighted and is now 50, left behind a trophy-laden spell at Manchester United in 2003 to join Real's star-studded Galacticos era.

Whilst he didn't replicate the silverware haul from his Old Trafford days, Beckham still secured a La Liga championship in 2007 and a Spanish Super Cup before his move to LA Galaxy. It might surprise some that iconic left-back Carlos, who represented Los Blancos between 1996 an