David Beckham gives perfect response to favourite pundit after Micah Richards question

David Beckham has hailed Kate Abdo as his top choice personality on the much-loved "Champions League Today" on CBS Sports.

Abdo, who recently tied the knot with Malik Scott in a low-key ceremony at the helm of the broadcast, is back and flanked by footie icons Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher, and Micah Richards, known for their light-hearted and witty commentary.

Beckham, who graced the studio as a special guest during the season's opening episode, was clearly chuffed to be in the company of the presenting heavyweights. The Inter Miami owner fessed up to being an aficionado of the show, visibly thrilled at sharing the stage with CBS's top presenters.

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"I'm really glad to be on the show because obviously, I watch the show and I admire how you guys bring this show to life," Beckham said. "And I think that's what entices people to watch what they watch with you guys because it's exciting.

"It's different every time we watch the game, and for me to be part of the team in this way. I'm not a pundit - I don't think I've ever been good enough to be a pundit - but to be part of this team is special."

In a lighthearted moment, when co-host Richards quizzed him on his preferred presenter, Beckham, bursting with a laugh, gave kudos to "The United fan", giving Abdo some major props. As she celebrated her accolade, Richards lobbed a crumpled ball of paper at her across the desk.

Beckham has made headlines not just for his appearance on the show but also for announcing his deal with Paramount+. The football icon is set to feature in an alternative telecast called "Beckham and Friends" alongside CBS Sports' UEFA Champions League coverage.

The format of Beckham's show is expected to mirror the successful "ManningCast" from Monday Night Football, offering a fresh take on UEFA Champions League viewing on Paramount+. Fans can look forward to streaming the show during both UEFA Champions League Semifinal Leg 2 matches and the UEFA Champions League Final.

Sharing his vision for the show, Beckham explained to studio hosts: "Like you guys, I love watching the game. I like watching the game a certain way with family and friends. So, it's going to be that kind of thing, where I'm sat there watching the games, commenting on the games with friends, talking about the games, and not sometimes talking about the games."

Last year, Paramount Global secured its U. S. rights for UEFA soccer until 2030, shelling out $1.5 billion for a six-year extension. This deal includes not only the Champions League but also Europa League and the Europa Conference League.

Financially, this rights agreement represents a substantial increase, with CBS outbidding Amazon to keep the rights. Reports suggest the annual value will jump to $250 million, a significant rise from the current $100 million.