Victoria Beckham apparently enjoyed a low-key birthday celebration in the absence of her husband.

David is currently based in Italy after agreeing an extension to his contract with AC Milan, as he looks to extend his football career long enough to play in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

However, Victoria is still living in Los Angeles, where the couple moved in 2007 after the former England captain signed for LA Galaxy.

That means the pair will be apart on her 35th birthday on Friday.

The former Spice Girl usually organises a lavish party to mark her birthday, but this year chose a quiet night out with some close friends the night before the big day, reports the Daily Star.

Her selection of friends for the trip to Cecconi’s restaurant in Hollywood was, however, probably the envy of all celeb watchers, as dining with her were Mrs Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, and Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria.