Many were expecting lavish party ideas for David Beckham's 33rd birthday today, but the Daily Mail reports the former England captain is keeping it low key.

Beckham celebrated his birthday a day early, taking his wife out for a candlelit dinner at LA restaurant The Ivy last night.

"It was a very romantic affair with low lighting and a single candle on the table," claimed a source. "They were holding hands, smiling and looking into one another's eyes.

"Anyone would think they had just met."

The insider added that people had expected extravagant party ideas and an abundance of celebrity guests bearing birthday gifts, but the married couple were obviously happy with just each other's company.

However, the LA Galaxy footballer may be happy not having a big celebration, as he and Victoria held a joint party last month to celebrate his 33rd and her 34th birthday.

Gwen Stefani and husband Gavin Rossdale were among the high-profile guests bearing large birthday gifts and a joint card for the British couple.