LA Galaxy star David Beckham is sporting a new tattoo for the new MLS season.

The former England captain, desperate for his 100th cap against France next week, showed off the new body art on his left rib-cage after a goalless charity match in Dallas.

The Chinese Mandarin script reads: Death and life have their determined appointment... Riches and honour depend on Heaven. The sentiments might have come straight from Eric Cantona, another former United hero, who often baffled with his bizarre pronouncements.

"David has always wanted that tattoo - the meaning is very important to him," said a spokesperson.