Here is a look at the life and career of former England captain David Beckham who announced his retirement on Thursday.

Early life

- Beckham was born on May 2, 1975 in London. He joined Manchester United as a 16-year-old trainee in 1991. By 1995 he became a regular during the club's most successful era.

David Beckham of Manchester United celebrates after scoring United's third goal during the FA Charity Shield between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium in London, Aug 11, 1996. Manchester United went on to defeat Newcastle by 4-0. [Photo/CFP]

- They won the Premier League and FA Cup double during his first full season. During the 1996/97 campaign he scored from the halfway line in an opening day victory over Wimbledon.

- In 1999 the team went one further, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League treble.

Portrait of David Beckham of England during training at Bisham Abbey in Berkshire, England, Sept 4, 1997. [Photo/CFP]