London, Jan 13: Ace footballer David Beckham wants to carry on as a player until he turns 40.

Beckham (33), revealed his aim after playing 89 minutes of his debut for AC Milan on Sunday against Roma.

It was his first game at the top level since his Real Madrid swansong in June 2007, The Sun reported.

He said: "I hope to be able to play until I'm 40. I love the game. When I stop loving it, that's when I'll decide to stop."

The innovative Milan Lab, the Italian giants' famous medical centre, should be a help to him.

Alessandro Costacourta was able to play till he turned 41 and AC Milan skipper Paolo Maldini is following suit.

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti is convinced the former Manchester United star still has a long time left in the game.

He said: "I think he can definitely play until he's 40. His career will last a long time yet."

Beckham, who is on loan from LA Galaxy until March, also hinted that he is thinking of extending his stay with AC Milan. (ANI)