Despite their defeat in the MLS Cup final on penalties, England star David Beckham says he is proud of LA Galaxy.

Galaxy lost 5-4 in a shoot-out to Real Salt Lake after a 1-1 draw but Beckham, who joins AC Milan on loan in January, will return to the US next season.

Beckham, who scored his spot-kick, said, “It’s always tough losing, but we can be proud of where we’ve come to.”

Meanwhile, Beckham has been given the option of buying the league’s 20th team, MLS commissioner Don Garber said.

“David has the option for our 20th team and that option can’t be exercised until after 2011 or after he stops playing. So we’ve got some time to figure that one out,” Garber said.

Aside from playing midfield for Galaxy, Beckham is also a player of the England national team, which he captained from 2000 to 2006.

(article and photo source: BBC)