Michael Keane became the first Burnley outfield player since Martin Dobson in 1974 to debut for England as he took the field for the Three Lions in the international friendly against Germany, played in Dortmund tonight.
Keane was making his full England debut playing in Gareth Southgate's adventurous copy of Antonio Conte's 3-4-3 successful Chelsea formation. Keane joined Manchester United's Chris Smalling and the experienced former Burnley player Gary Cahill in a three man central defensive unit.
Keane settled well for England and could have made the ultimate dream start when he fired over the German crossbar from an English corner early in the first half. The Burnley centre half looked full of confidence and stroked the ball around as England took control of the first half with a measured performance.
In a game that appeared to be almost a testimonial for veteran German striker and former Arsenal flop Lukas Poldolski, Keane continued to impress in the second half and seemed to grow in stature by the minute as he adapted to the international game. A deceptive bouncing ball almost caught him out and cost England a goal, but Hart saved well from Manchester City's Leroy Sane.
Keane played the whole duration of the game and performed in much the same way as he does for Sean Dyche's Clarets. Keane was well organised and in full control of his game, making timely interceptions and his passing was accurate throughout the encounter with the World Champions.
Podolski's last appearance in a German shirt finished in a 1-0 victory for the home side. Podolski's second half, left footed howitzer whistled past Joe Hart in the England goal, to bring a fitting end to a wonderful international career.
It was hard not to think that as one international career ended another one was in it's infancy. Michael Keane made his family and the whole town of Burnley proud today, along with everyone associated with Burnley Football Club.
I must admit to wiping a solitary tear from my eye when the English national anthem was played. Congratulations Michael, I hope we enjoy many more of your appearances wearing the England shirt. (TEC).
Source: DSG
