England captain Beckham is being courted by Barcelona and, according to reports, Real Madrid with United apparently ready to sell him to the highest bidder.

Stam believes leaving Old Trafford may now be Beckham’s only real option.

“Once Ferguson decides you are no longer part of his plans for whatever reasons, there is no turning back,” Stam told the Sunday Mirror.

“You are like an unwanted piece of baggage and you have to weigh up whether it’s worth hanging around when there is no chance of playing.

“I think you are just expected to accept it, there is no plan in place if you decide you’re not going other than the fact you will probably be left to rot in the reserves.

“I am sure the other players are surprised by Beckham’s departure and the way it has happened. I know a lot of them will not want to see him leave.”