David Beckham recovering after Achilles tendon surgery in Finland

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Galaxy and England national team midfielder David Beckham on Monday underwent surgery to repair his torn left Achilles tendon and was recovering from the procedure in Turku, Finland.

Dr. Sakari Orava, the specialist who performed the operation, said Beckham had ‘totally torn’ the tendon and would ‘have to take it easy during the next two to three weeks or a month and then he will continue with a recuperation program slowly.’

That appeared to extinguish the ‘glimmer of hope’ that Orava held out for Beckham to take part in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa in June. The surgeon said Beckham’s left foot will not be able to ‘take much strain’ for at least three months. The World Cup begins June 11.

Even though hundreds of fans gathered outside the Mehilainen hospital in Turku for Beckham’s arrival, the player said nothing. His only public statement since suffering the injury on Sunday while playing on loan for AC Milan was posted on his website.

‘I am upset but want to thank everyone for their messages of support,’ Beckham said. ‘I hope to make a swift and full recovery.’

Bruce Arena, the Galaxy’s coach and general manager, said Sunday that he wanted to speak with Beckham before making any comment. The club on Monday released a statement that quoted Arena:

‘Injuries are an unfortunate part of our game and they are even more disappointing when they happen to a player who was so close to realizing his dream of representing his nation at this summer’s World Cup. We will give David our complete support to make sure he is able to get himself back to full health before he returns to the field. David remains an important player for the Galaxy and we look forward to welcoming him back and assisting in his recovery.’

-- Grahame L. Jones