THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

CARSON, Calif. -- If David Beckham recovers from a torn Achilles' tendon in six months, he would rejoin Major League Soccer's Los Angeles Galaxy in time for the team's last six regular-season games.

The 34-year-old midfielder had surgery Monday, a day after injuring his foot while on his second loan to Italy's AC Milan. Dr. Sakari Orava said after operating that Beckham is expected to be out of action for about half a year.

"Injuries are an unfortunate part of our game and they are even more disappointing when they happen to a player who was so close to realizing his dream of representing his nation at this summer's World Cup," Galaxy coach Bruce Arena said in a statement. "We will give David our complete support to make sure that he is able to get himself back to full health before he returns to the field. David remains an important player for the Galaxy and we look forward to welcoming him back to the club and assisting him in his recovery."

The projected timetable has Beckham returning to play after Los Angeles' Sept. 11 home game against Columbus, in time for the Sept. 18 home match against D.C. United.

The Galaxy host New York on Sept. 24, are the road team against local rival Chivas USA on Oct. 3, then play four days later at expansion Philadelphia. The Galaxy close at home against Colorado on Oct. 16 and Dallas on Oct. 24.

Beckham had two goals and three assists in 11 regular-season matches with the Galaxy last year, his third season with the team. Los Angeles advanced to the MLS final before losing to Salt Lake on penalty kicks.