Who is Michael Keane? Burnley defender handed England debut against Germany and likened to Rio Ferdinand
Clarets centre-back who came through the ranks at Manchester United is linked with a number of big clubs
MICHAEL KEANE is the current Burnley centre-back who came through the ranks at Manchester United and has been likened to Rio Ferdinand by the man himself.
Keane made his England debut against Germany in Gareth Southgate's first game as official Three Lions boss.
Keane lined-up alongside veterans Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling in the heart of the defence for the clash and put on a solid display, despite the 1-0 defeat in Dortmund.
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But who is Michael Keane? Find out everything you need to know right here...
Who is Michael Keane?
Keane, 24, is currently on the books of Premier League side Burnley.
He is a central defender, and has quickly developed a reputation as one of the best in the country.
Since joining the Clarets - initially on loan - in 2014, Keane was turned out over 100 times in all competitions for the club.
What is Michael Keane's club and international experience?
Keane kicked off his professional career at Manchester United in 2011, having worked his way through the Old Trafford youth ranks.
After struggling to break into the first-team, making just one Premier League appearance, Keane was shipped out on loan to Leicester, Derby and Blackburn before his move to Sean Dyche's Burnley.
On the international front, Keane turned out for both Republic of Ireland Under-17s and Under-19s, before playing for England Under-19s, Under-20s and Under-21s.
Keane played 16 times for the Under-21s, scoring three goals.
He currently has two full international caps, both coming under Southgate.
Is Michael Keane the future of England?
Absolutely, yes. Keane has heaps of experience in the Under-21s, which essentially serves as the England 'B' team - much of which was spent under now top boss Southgate.
The defender is also not set to stay at Burnley for too long, as Premier League giants including Chelsea and Everton are desperate to sign him in the summer.
His ability in the tackle, in the air and with the ball at his feet mean that with a bit more experience in friendlies, we could easily be seeing Keane as the first defender on the team-sheet for the World Cup in 2018.
And Man United legend Ferdinand has himself singled out Keane for praise.
He said: "He’s like I was at 24: a sponge. He’s from a great family and had a good school upbringing. He’s very mature for his age — one you’d want your daughter to bring home."