Retiring English football icon David Beckham should be celebrated for his on-field achievements and for spearheading a new era of superstar athletes, Britain's press, said Friday.

Beckham has had a troubled relationship with Britain's press. Fleet Street savaged the midfield playmaker after his red card was blamed for England's 1998 World Cup exit against Argentina.

On Friday however, the country's journalists paid tribute to his success in rebuilding his career and reputation.