Why David Beckham was booed by 40,000-strong crowd as Inter Miami played a Hong Kong XI

David Beckham was BOOED by furious fans as Inter Miami played a Hong Kong XI in a pre-season clash.

Inter Miami continue their preparations ahead of the new season, having toured Saudi Arabia - playing Al Hilal and Al Nassr.

The MLS side are now in Asia as they played a Hong Kong XI, with a friendly match against Japanese side Vissel Kobe scheduled on February 7.

Robert Taylor, Lawson Connery Sunderland, Leonardo Campana and Ryan Sailor all got on the score-sheet as they beat a Hong Kong XI 4-1 on Sunday.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez watched on from the bench as they were unused substitutes.

And the decision to leave Messi on the bench for the entire game angered fans in attendance at the Hong Kong Stadium.

The 40,000-strong crowd booed Beckham when he thanked the supporters following the result.

The Manchester United legend was jeered as he delivered his post-match speech, with fans even demanding a refund.

Miami co-owner David Beckham was drowned out by booing as he tried to thank the crowd "for their incredible support" while fans signalled their anger with thumbs-down gestures. https://t.co/l6Hctc8LuK pic.twitter.com/BZYj18KB6q

— Hong Kong Free Press HKFP (@hkfp) February 4, 2024

However, it was reportedly made clear to fans when they purchased tickets for the match that there would be no refunds issued if Messi didn't play.

The World Cup winner, though, had been heavily promoted when tickets went on sale.

Addressing the fans in attendance, the former England captain said: "On behalf of everybody involved in Inter Miami, our club, I would like to say thank you very much for the incredible welcome.

"We have always loved... I have always loved Hong Kong. Thank you very much for the incredible welcome. And we look forward to coming back one day to entertain you even more.

"Thank you to the media. Thank you for everyone in the stadium that has turned up tonight and been here for us.

"It means a lot because to see these great players play inspires a lot of young children in this country and around the world.

"I hope one day we will be back to entertain you. Hong Kong, thank you very much. I will see you soon. Thank you."