Milan midfielder David Beckham believes his loan spell at the club has helped improve his fitness and game, as the race to make his stay permanent gathers pace.

The England international has been outstanding for the Rossoneri and he is back in training after international week as he prepares for his first Milan derby on Sunday night.

The Rossoneri have been trying to sign him permanently, but the Los Angeles Galaxy have been playing hard ball.

Nevertheless, 'Becks' insists the training regime at the Italian club have seen him improve on every level as he hints at a possible stay.

"Milan has done me a world of good," Beckham told the club's official website.

"I am in top form and my fitness is a lot better compared to what it was before.

"In just a month and a half my physical condition has grown 100 per cent. This is the most important thing to me."

Voices coming from America have asked the Italians to step up their bid for Beckham if they are to land him permanently. The MLS have given Adriano Galliani and co. until Friday to secure the player's services for the long