WELL there's a sight I never thought I'd see: David Beckham in a Spurs training kit.

But, for now at least, it is just that. A training kit.

Not the fully-fledged, watch-me-stick-a-cross-on-a-striker's-forehead-in-my-sleep, first team get-up.

Because, as I think I've made fairly clear by now, the 35-year-old has so far only been cleared to train with Spurs until he returns to Major League Soccerball action in the spring, rather than to actually play competitive matches.

And I, for one, am rather glad. As far as I could see the only benefit Lord Beckingham could bring to the club was his experience and wisdom behind the scenes, as opposed than anything he might do on the pitch.

Having Chingford's finest export since Teddy Sheringham at the Lane (or, more precisely, Spurs Lodge) in this capacity gives us the best of both worlds and mean that no player will lose his place to a bloke who covers the ground about as fast as I do after a large Indian meal.

This Sunday saw Spurs kick off their FA Cup campaign against a spirited Charlton Athletic side who, despite the 3-0 scoreline, gave a good account of themselves from start to finish.

Debutant Andros Townsend opened the scoring just after the break, having spent the first half making plenty of Aaron Lennon-esque runs in from the right wing, with a confidence that belied his lack of first-time experience.

By the hour mark we were home and dry thanks to a terrific Jermain Defoe double, who made his return from a three-match suspension to net twice for the second successive time against the south Londoners.

Next up in the competition is a potentially tricky trip to Fulham, but this weekend brings the far more pressing matter of a visit from the still unbeaten Manchester United.

If there was ever a time to bring our A-game in front of our own fans, then 4.10pm on Sunday afternoon is it