Keane still has dream
WORLD CUP IS BIG AIM
MICHAEL KEANE insists he has not given up on his World Cup dream as he prepares for the audition of a lifetime in front of Gareth Southgate.
The Everton ace faces every Premier League defender’s worst nightmare in the next two games – Manchester City tonight followed by Liverpool.
Keane has four caps but was left out of Southgate’s England squad for the recent Holland and Italy friendlies.
The centre-half knows his last chance of winning a place in England’s 23man squad could well depend on how he does against two of the most fearsome attacks in European football.
He said: “When the squad was announced I was disappointed but I still believe I’ve got a chance of going to the World Cup – that’s a big aim for me and I don’t think it’s out of reach.
“I’m sure if Everton are doing well and I’m playing well in an Everton team that’s winning games, then I’ll have a decent chance.”
But with no more England games to come before Southgate names his squad for Russia, Keane knows strong displays against the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Mo Salah could give the by IAN WHITTELL Three Lions boss something to think about.
“First and foremost I want to finish as high as we can for Everton,” said Keane at a William Hill event.
“But in the back of my mind I’ve got England and the World Cup so if I can play well myself, while getting results with Everton, even better.
“Hopefully I can give Gareth something to think about and a decision to make.
“The upcoming games are a big test but you want to test yourself against the best players.”
Everton secured a draw in City’s first home game of the season – making them the only side to pick up a point at the Etihad this term.
Since then Ronald Koeman and caretaker David Unsworth made way for Sam Allardyce as they struggled.
Keane said: “Obviously in general it has been a disappointing season for us but I know all the lads are desperate to put that right next year and come back raring to go.” William Hill is the proud partner of Everton Football Club. For all of the latest Premier League odds and specials visit williamhill.com