Beckham leaves Finland after surgery

TURKU, Finland — David Beckham and his wife Victoria flew out of Finland on Wednesday on a private jet, two days after the former England captain had surgery for a torn Achilles’ tendon. The plan carrying the couple took off in a light snow shower shortly after arriving from the clinic where Beckham had surgery on his left foot. The injury that will keep him sidelined for about six months, meaning he will miss the World Cup in South Africa. The couple made no comments, and it wasn’t immediately clear where they were heading. Beckham’s doctor, who had earlier said they would likely travel to London and later to the United States, said Wednesday he “had no idea where they are flying to." Earlier, police pushed back dozens of shouting fans as the couple got into a silver Volkswagen van parked outside the clinic in southwestern Finland just before 2 p.m. (1200 GMT). Escorted by two police cars, they were taken to the local airport. The 34-year-old Beckham tore his left Achilles’ tendon when playing for AC Milan on Sunday and underwent surgery in Turku on Monday. Before Beckham’s departure, orthopedic surgeon Sakari Orava said medical teams would review a rehabilitation program for Beckham. Beckham, who flew to the Mehilainen Clinic in Turku on Monday, was joined a day later by his wife, who also spent the night at the clinic. Local newspapers reported that the couple ordered pizzas late Tuesday. Orava, who has operated on several international sports stars, stressed the importance of having family close by. “One’s family really can help a lot in such situations," Orava told Finland’s YLE television. “It’s understandable that such a serious injury, which in the worst case scenario could end one’s career, can be depressing and the role of the family is to give support." Earlier, Orava told the AP that the tendon was totally torn, ruling out his hopes of playing in his fourth World Cup. The tournament starts June 11 in South Africa. “It is hard to tell, but in general I can say that after an Achilles’ tendon tear, a total rupture, people usually are back in sports within half-a-year," Orava said. AC Milan said Beckham would begin rehabilitation right away. “The plan includes a complete recovery in six months, at the end of which he can play again," the club said. Orava said Beckham was a good patient and a joy to treat. “He is a very sympathetic, peaceful and nice person. Looks you in the eyes," Orava said. “Our nurses also said that he’s a great patient and doesn’t complain about anything." – AP