Keane: My dream of Wembley
MICHAEL KEANE’S biggest Wembley memory is watching Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and Xavi run rings around Manchester United.
Now the Burnley defender is hoping for the chance to make his own mark on the biggest stage in English football.
Gareth Southgate’s decision to hand Keane his Three Lions debut in Wednesday night’s prestige friendly against World champions Germany was a huge vote of confidence.
And the 24-year-old passed the test as part of a new three-man defence that gave England a platform to dominate in Dortmund for long spells, despite a 1-0 defeat.
Now Keane hopes the England boss resists the temptation to bring back John Stones in his place for today’s World Cup qualifier against Lithuania.
The Stockport-born centre-back, who has rebuilt his career impressively at Turf Moor since he was sold by United in January 2015, said: “I haven’t played at Wembley before, but, hopefully, that experience isn’t too far away.
“I have warmed up on the touchline as a substitute for England, but I have never actually got on, so it would be another dream come true.
“My main memory is going there with United to watch the Champions League Final against Barcelona.
“We had won the FA Youth Cup and the club arranged for us to travel down as a team.
“Unfortunately, United lost – but Barcelona were unbelievable and it had an impact on us all.”
Keane added: “I definitely didn’t think it was over when I left United – because I have confidence in my ability.
“I’m thankful for Sean Dyche, the manager at Burnley, for giving me the chance to play regularly.
“It gave me confidence and I feel international football is the highest level you can play at.”