David Beckham believes this week's inaugural Pan-Pacific Championship in Hawaii can provide the catalyst for a successful second season with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

England midfielder Beckham's first campaign in Major League Soccer was severely restricted by knee and ankle injuries, but he is confident of a better showing under new coach Ruud Gullit in 2008.

The 32-year-old will play his first match in two months against Japanese J-League side Gamba Osaka at Honolulu's Aloha Stadium tonight, with a place in the tournament final at stake. MLS champions Houston Dynamo take on Australia's Sydney FC in the second semi-final tomorrow.

Asked if he expected major improvement from the Galaxy this year following their failure to reach the MLS play-offs, Beckham said: "There has to be.

"It is a fresh start with a new manager, a new regime and a new togetherness. Many things have already changed and we want to build momentum and start winning things."

The Galaxy has concentrated on building fitness since returning from their off-season two weeks ago, with Beckham having also trained with English Premier League leaders Arsenal for several weeks prior to flying back to the United States.

"We are not match-fit yet," he said. "The games here are pre-season friendlies. My approach doesn't change whether it is the Premiership, La Liga or a friendly. I want to win."

For Gullit and his players, the trip to Hawaii is the start of an extensive pre-season tour which will also feature up to three matches in Asia.

Gullit voiced concerns about his team playing on artificial turf just weeks ahead of the new MLS season.

"I am not happy we have to play on (artificial) turf," the Dutchman said.