David Beckham hit with ban over 'confrontational and provocative behaviour'

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham has been banned for one game and fined an undisclosed amount for his "confrontational and provocative behaviour" during and after last weekend's defeat at San Jose.

The 37-year-old former England captain was handed the punishments by the Major League Soccer disciplinary committee after being involved in an on-pitch scuffle during the 4-3 loss.

Angry at perceived time-wasting, Beckham struck a San Jose man with the ball and then continued to argue with opposing players after the final whistle.

A statement read: "The committee considered his conduct unacceptable and detrimental to the league's public image. Beckham will serve his suspension on Sunday afternoon when the Galaxy take on the Chicago Fire at Toyota Park."

It capped a bad week for Beckham following Stuart Pearce's decision not to select him as one of three over-age players in the Great Britain squad for the London Olympics.

Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena was also fined an undisclosed amount for his public criticism of the match officials.

PA