David Beckham ready for acting criticism

LONDON, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- Former professional athlete David Beckham says he's ready to face criticism regarding his developing acting skills.

As he enters the entertainment industry for a second career -- already making appearances in a Sport Relief sketch and the new film Man from U.N.C.L.E. -- Beckham told The Times Magazine he can handle the industry.

"I am very aware that my sportsmen and other celebrities have turned their hand to acting and failed," he told the publication this week. "I know that it is such a tough profession, where you need a huge amount of skill and discipline, and I wouldn't want to push myself forward too soon, without learning more about it, and doing a lot more practice."

"But what I have done so far, I have loved. I can deal with most things. I am a well-known person, so I have got used to criticism."

In January, designer Georgio Armani predicted Beckham's move to Hollywood. He said at the time the retired soccer player's move to play with the Los Angeles Galaxy was to be closer to the entertainment Mecca.

"He is a very handsome man," Armani said. "His football career could be nearing an end."

Beckham announced his retirement from high-profile play in May 2013.