Tottenham coach Les Ferdinand admits David Beckham’s arrival on loan could receive a “mixed reaction” from players.
Beckham, 35, is currently training with Spurs during the Major League Soccer off-season, with boss Harry Redknapp eager to land the former England captain on a temporary basis.
And while admitting Beckham’s arrival on loan would give Tottenham “a lift”, Ferdinand fears some players may question the deal.
The ex-England striker told the Daily Star: “There is going to be a mixed reaction from the players. Some of them will look and say, 'What is this guy actually going to bring to us?'
“But I wouldn't say it's a PR stunt. Harry (Redknapp) does genuinely believe David can bring something extra to the club.
“And not just on the park, because the guy is such a professional, a real example to others. It will be interesting to see how he trains and conducts himself.
“There may be some unsure what a 35-year-old is going to give the team, but his professionalism is not in question.”
Ferdinand added: “What I think is that his professionalism, which started from his time at Manchester United, will rub off on others.
“What Harry sees in David is exactly what Tottenham need right now, which is a lift.
“Signing David will give the fans and players a lift, which will do something fantastic for the whole atmosphere around White Hart Lane.”