Beckham changed boots for fashion not the kangaroos, say adidas

Herzogenaurach, Germany - Real Madrid star David Beckham didn't stop wearing adidas Predator football boots, made out of baby kangaroo leather as a result of watching a video sent by animal rights campaigners, the sports manufacturer suggested Monday. Campaigners have applauded England captain Beckham's decision to switch to Predators made from synthetic materials but adidas, have suggested the move is because he is 'very fashion conscious'. Anne Putz, a spokeswoman for the company, which has signed the player on a multi-million dollar advertisement deal until 2008, told Deutsche Presse-Agentur, dpa, that Beckham liked to try 'new colours and designs'. adidas are of the understanding that Beckham will still play with boots made out of kangaroo leather at this summer's World Cup in Germany. It was initially reported that Beckham made his decision after seeing a graphic film sent by animal rights group Viva, which showed how kangaroos were shot and their babies pulled from their mother's pouch and beaten to death. 'In no way can you justify the slaughter of millions of kangaroos to make football boots,' said Justin Kerswell of Viva. The Predator boot was invented in 1993 by former Liverpool midfielder Craig Johnston and was originally completely made of synthetic products. © 2006 dpa - Deutsche Presse-Agentur