David Beckham complimented England footballer Alessia Russo for being an example to his daughter Harper Seven and other youngsters around the country.
The former athlete, 48, met down with the Lionesses star ahead of her journey to Australia for the start of the Women’s World Cup and used the opportunity to express his thanks to the 24-year-old.
Alessia joined the rest of England’s prospects as they began their bid to become champions at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand.
David accompanied the emerging star for a pre-tournament photoshoot for Adidas and shared anecdotes from their time on the pitch.
During the conversation, the ex-England star paused to congratulate the Arsenal signing for inspiring children to play football.
‘Obviously, the chat this morning was about me seeing you and collecting your autograph – which, of course, I must do later,’ he informed Alessia.
‘But for you to inspire a new generation of footballers – boys, girls, and my daughter, I want to say thank you for that.
‘Enjoy it. It’s going to be the most amazing moment of your life landing in Australia and New Zealand and just knowing you have a whole nation behind you, supporting you.’
His remarks were in answer to the footballer’s inquiry about Harper’s excitement about seeing the ladies compete at the World Cup.
After lapping up David’s nuggets of wisdom, Alessia said: ‘That’s so nice to hear. Those are the stories that make everything worthwhile.’
David and Alessia’s chat came shortly after the youngest Beckham celebrated her 12th birthday
Her renowned mother, Victoria, 49, and father, both sent sweet messages to their only daughter on her special day to Instagram.
Posh Spice wrote: ‘Happy Birthday Harper Seven. The sweetest, kindest soul. Your love and energy is a blessing to everyone lucky enough to know and love you.
‘You are our everything. We love you so much.@davidbeckham @brooklynpeltzbeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham [sic],’ next to a series of photos that showed the teenager playing in a park.
Meanwhile, David posted a reel featuring moments from Harper’s childhood and shared a message to the youngster that read: ‘Happy Birthday my pretty lady. Keep being beautiful inside and out. You are the most amazing little girl a daddy could wish for.
‘Daddy loves you #HarperSeven @victoriabeckham @brooklynpeltzbeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham [sic].’
