Manchester United youngster Michael Keane is hoping for another spot in the starting XI in the League Cup game at Chelsea after putting in an assured performance for his side in their last Capital One Cup tie against Newcastle.
United take on the Blues at Stamford Bridge after the controversial English Premier League game on Sunday, but both sides are expected to make wholesale changes, with youngsters very much coming to the fore.
One of those players hoping to get a chance is highly-rated center back Keane. "You play games with more pressure when you get to a higher level," Keane told the club's official website. "Every game you play, you've got more experience of playing for points and playing because it means something rather than just friendlies.
"When you get called into the first team, you're used to being desperate to win and getting the three points (or getting through to the next round).
"I was so tired (after the Newcastle tie). I've never been that tired after a game. Mentally as well as physically because of the concentration, how the day went building up to it and then the 90 minutes was tough but we did well.
"Obviously it was harder physically being on the big Old Trafford pitch but mentally playing against more experienced players means you have to be concentrating the whole time and not taking any breaks. It does take it out of you but, as long as you concentrate for 90 minutes, you're fine.
"Shola Ameobi has played in the Premier League for years so you know if you're playing against him, you're probably good enough to play in the Premier League. I see it as a challenge to yourself and the whole back four coped reasonably well."
The 19-year-old will not have to withstand the physical prowess of an Ameobi against Chelsea with Daniel Sturridge expected to start the game up front for Roberto Di Mattteo's side. Keane, last year's Reserves player of the year, just wants to keep putting in the hard work, knowing he will be given a chance by Sir Alex Ferguson sooner or later.
"I've been training every day," the England Under-19 international added. "Working hard and getting fitter every day so it's going well.
"When you go on tour and play a few games, it gives you a good taste of first-team football and it just makes you want to play more when you get back. I know there's probably only going to be one or two opportunities because of the players involved but I can't think like that.
"I've just got to work hard every day in training and prove I'm good enough to play and, hopefully, get picked.
"A lot has happened in the last year but it's been good experience for me. I keep stepping up a level and, hopefully, that will keep happening and I can progress with England and keep getting my chances here in the first team."
