Beckham visits troops in Helmand
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.David Beckham flew out to Afghanistan last night on a surprise visit to British troops. He said he hoped to "do something useful" following the Achilles tendon injury which has ruled him out of the World Cup.
Beckham, 35, will meet troops and Afghan children, although his participation in kickabout games for the photographers will be limited, because of his injury. Instead he will spend the weekend meeting soldiers, sleeping in a tent and eating in their refectory.
The midfielder, who plays club football for Los Angeles Galaxy, is also expected to meet American troops, and those of other nationalities, such as the Danish, Estonian and Canadian.
He will be the most famous British sportsman to visit the front line in Helmand. A number of other sportsmen, including footballers, have been approached to take part in morale-boosting trips but most have not felt able to undertake the assignment.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments