Training worsens Beckham's injury

Carson, California:

David Beckham aggravated his injured left ankle, the first time the England midfielder has trained on consecutive days since October 2. As a result, he might miss the Los Angeles Galaxy's final home game against the New York Red Bulls on Thursday night.

Beckham bent down to grab his left ankle twice during a scrimmage and left training early.

Manager Frank Yallop said even if Beckham could play, he would not start.

"We're not going to mess with the starting lineup," Yallop said. "If he's available, he'll be one of the subs."

Beckham has not played since August 29, when he sprained his right knee in the North American SuperLiga final against Pachuca. He also had been playing on a sprained left ankle since June.

He was listed as questionable on this week's injury report, an upgrade from last week's "out" status.

The Galaxy has won five consecutive games and must beat or draw New York to stay in contention for the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Los Angeles is four points behind Chicago and Kansas City, which share the eighth and final playoff berth. The Galaxy ends the regular season Sunday at Chicago.

Beckham has played 308 minutes while starting four of six games in his abbreviated debut season. He has one goal and two assists.