Real Madrid have denied they are unhappy with David Beckham for playing a few minutes of Martin Keown’s testimonial at Highbury on Monday night.

The England captain intended to play in the game but Real requested he remain on the sidelines.

As a compromise, Beckham started the game but left after three minutes having touched the ball just four times. It had been reported that Madrid were unhappy that he played any part in the match, but deputy sporting director Emile Butragueno denied there was a problem.

“We are happy with this,” Butragueno told Sky Sports News.

“He hasÊbeen a good team-mate. He is a fighter.

“His first half (of the season) was fantastic but the second half, well the team itself hasn’t played well.”

Butragueno also failed to blame criticise Beckham for his dismissal during Sunday’s defeat to Real Murcia.

“They are human beings,” he stated.Ê

“When you are doing your best and don’t get results, sometimes you can get frustrated.”