MILAN, Italy -- David Beckham made a surprising start in his Italian league debut Sunday, a solid 89-minute performance for AC Milan in a 2-2 draw with AS Roma.

Beckham failed to score in his first match on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy, but Alexander Pato got two goals at Stadio Olimpico to help Milan into third place.

"I felt good in the game, very strong and I enjoyed it," Beckham said. "I enjoyed playing with these players and in this city."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said Saturday it would be "difficult" to start Beckham because the former England captain has been inactive for two months. However, Beckham lined up alongside Andrea Pirlo and Clarence Seedorf in midfield.

"I don't want to have regrets in my career," Beckham said. "I am very lucky to have this chance with this great club and I want to enjoy it."

Inter Milan leads the league with 43 points, followed by Juventus with 39, Milan with 34 and Napoli with 33.

Juventus downed Siena 1-0, creating few chances and needing a free kick by Alessandro Del Piero in the 33rd minute. Inter slipped up Saturday by drawing 1-1 with Cagliari.

Napoli made a sluggish return after the winter break, but eventually moved into the Champions League qualification places by beating Catania 1-0. Napoli's win put it ahead of Fiorentina, which lost to Lecce 2-1.