Beckham schedule increases pressure

David Beckham's hectic football schedule in the coming months looks certain to increase the pressure on his private life.

The England captain was today given compassionate leave by Real Madrid in light of reports that he had an affair with his personal assistant.

Real Madrid have already adopted an understanding attitude towards one of their star players to allow him to get his mind right for a series of vital fixtures.

In recent weeks, his form has suffered amid speculation that his wife Victoria spends little time in Spain and reports linking him with a move to Chelsea this summer.

Following recent stories that he had ditched his translator and declined to extend the lease on his current home in the capital, Beckham is believed to have had a meeting with the club's powerful sporting director Jorge Valdano who told him he needed to improve his Spanish and resolve any family issues to get his form back.

But Beckham's chaotic itinerary on the pitch will leave him little time to spend with his family.

Real Madrid are about to enter the most crucial period of their season as they bid to retain the Spanish championship and regain the Champions League. The Spanish league season doesn't end until 23 May and Beckham will immediately join up with his England colleagues as they begin preparations for Euro 2004.

Sven-Goran Erikkson's squad will spend a week at a training camp in Sardinia before they fly to Manchester for friendlies against Japan and Iceland on 1 and 5 June.

The players' wives and girlfriends have been invited to spend the entire week with the squad by the Football Association.