Beckham resumes training after knee problem

MADRID, Nov 29 (Reuters) David Beckham resumed training with the rest of the Real Madrid first team squad today after missing the club's last three games because of injury.

The 31-year-old former England captain has been sidelined because of an inflammation in the cartilage in his left knee, but now looks likely to be available for this Sunday's league match at home to Athletic Bilbao.

Beckham, who has yet to decide whether or not he will extend his contract with Real beyond the end of this season, has been in the starting line-up for just three of his side's 12 league matches this season.

Fabio Cannavaro, the recently crowned European Footballer of the Year, and fellow centre-back Ivan Helguera did not train with the rest of the team because of niggling muscle problems.

Real, who are bidding to end a four-year trophy drought this season, are in third place in the league, three points behind defending champions and arch-rivals Barcelona.

Reuters PDS VV1743