" I've worked so hard to get into this position. I've been in the gym a lot, getting stronger because that's one aspect of my game I needed to improve."
- Michael Keane
Michael Keane admits he is living the dream at Manchester United after rising through the ranks at the club he supported as a youngster.
The 19 year-old defender - non-identical twin brother of Reds striker Will - had a personally momentous campaign, making his first-team debut in the Carling Cup at Aldershot and helping United Reserves remain the top team in the country at that level. After being voted the club's Reserve Player of the Year, the season ended with more silverware after Manchester City were beaten in the Manchester Senior Cup final.
"I've been a United supporter since I can remember, with my dad having a season ticket for years," says Michael, in the new, July issue of Inside United, on sale next week.
"I remember when we were first scouted and I was so excited to come here. Ever since, I've worked so hard to get into this position. I've been in the gym a lot, getting stronger because that's one aspect of my game I needed to improve."
Keane admits that he could benefit from going out on loan next term but it all depends on what Sir Alex Ferguson has in store for him.
"You never know, it could be something I'd look to do," he added. "If the manager wants me to do it, I would be happy for it to happen, but I've just got to keep improving. Hopefully, it'll stand us in good stead and Will and I will have long careers at United."
The Keane twins have played together for England Under-19s in the past week, following Michael's first call-up after previously representing Republic of Ireland. The series of three matches was a
bitter-sweet experience for the brothers however - while Michael's sterling work helped club colleague Sam Johnstone limit the concessions to just one goal and Will scored twice in the opening game, the latter then suffered a long-term injury in the third fixture.
"The one bad thing for me was Keano [Will Keane] going off with his injury,” said coach Noel Blake, after his side qualified for the European Under-19 Championship finals.
"Whenever any of our lads go down, I feel hurt for them. It’s very much a family unit in the England squads and when one of us is hurting, we’re all hurting as well."
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