England legends praise Keane

The 24-year-old slotted in for his first cap as one of three centre backs deployed by Gareth Southgate at Signal Iduna Park, home of Borussia Dortmund, against world champions Germany.And in doing so, he became the first Claret to play from the opening whistle for England since Martin Dobson against Portugal on April 3rd, 1974.Glenn Hoddle was invited to present Keane with his shirt before the game.Skipper Tom Heaton, who ended Burnley's search for a senior England international last May, was on the bench.Mentor Rio Ferdinand said on his twitter page @rioferdy5 Keane's passing out the back so far been top class. Deli Alli looking classy tooLegendary striker Gary Lineker added: @GaryLineker Michael Keane has made a very assured and impressive start both defensively and in possession. And Andy Cole, who had a brief spell with the Clarets nine years ago, added: @vancole9 Pleased for Michael Keane & his family making his @England debut.... looking very comfortable! #GERENGKeane almost scored with one of his first touches, firing over left-footed from an early corner, He was composed and efficient in his passing, with one clipped pass into Dele Alli drawing much praise, while he stood up well to make a block from a typically stinging shot from Lukas Podolski, on his 130th and final appearance for Germany.Podolski went on to score the winner with a rasping drive in the 68th minute, while Leroy Sane forced a fine stop from Joe Hart after a slip from Keane with 16 minutes remaining.It was Keane's only worrying moment, however, in a hugely encouraging 90-minute display, that can only enhance his burgeoning reputation, and put him in contention to start the World Cup qualifier against Lithuania at Wembley on Sunday.