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Beckham says he backs Britain staying in EU

Xinhua, June 21, 2016 Adjust font size:

British sports icon David Beckham, one of the world's most famous footballers, announced here Tuesday he was backing the Remain vote in the upcoming referendum on Britain's EU membership.

In a statement issued in London, the one time England national team captain said: "I'm passionate about my country and whatever the result of Thursday's referendum, we will always be great. Each side has the right to their opinion and that should always be respected whatever the outcome of the European referendum."

"I was also privileged to play and live in Madrid, Milan and Paris with teammates from all around Europe and the world. Those great European cities and their passionate fans welcomed me and my family and gave us the opportunity to enjoy their unique and inspiring cultures," Beckham said.

His intervention, just three days before 43 million Britons place their historic votes, comes 24 hours after the 20 big-name clubs making up the English Premiership all stated that they supported Britain remaining in the EU.

"We live in a vibrant and connected world where together as a people we are strong. For our children and their children we should be facing the problems of the world together and not alone. For these reasons I am voting to Remain," he added.

The latest polls on Tuesday showed both "Remain" and "Leave" are virtually neck-and-neck. Endit