David Beckham responds to ‘leaked’ emails controversy

A spokesperson for Beckham has responded.

As part of the ongoing 'Football Leaks' whistleblowing operation, some very controversial - and alleged at this stage - personal emails from David Beckham have been made public which don't paint the ex-Manchester United man in the best light. The most damaging reports revolve around Beckham's reaction to not being given a knighthood in the 2013 Queen's Honours. He is alleged to have emailed his chief public relations adviser, Simon Oliveira, the following at not being made a Sir:

"They [are] a bunch of c**ts I expected nothing less...Who decides on the honours?? It’s a disgrace to be honest and if I was American I would of got something like this 10 years ago."

The leak also claims that the former England captain focused his ire on singer Katherine Jenkins, who was awarded an OBE:

"Katherine Jenkins OBE for what? Singing at the rugby and going to see the troops plus admiring [sic] to taking coke…F**king joke and if you get asked we should think of a cutting remark."

There are also suggestions that Beckham's charity work with UNICEF was partly motivated by the hope of royal honours. Now David Beckham has responded via a spokesperson. The lengthy statement, reported by Digital Spy says the story is taken out of context.

"This story is based on outdated material taken out of context from hacked and doctored private emails from a third party server and gives a deliberately inaccurate picture.

"David Beckham and UNICEF have had a powerful partnership in support of children for over 15 years. The David Beckham 7 Fund specifically has raised millions of pounds and helped millions of vulnerable children around the world. David Beckham has given significant time and energy and has made personal financial donations to the 7 Fund and this commitment will continue long term.

"Before establishing the 7 Fund, David had supported UNICEF and a number of other charities over many years, including donating his entire earnings from PSG during his time playing there.

"David and UNICEF are rightly proud of what they have and will continue to achieve together and are happy to let the facts speak for themselves."