The 19-year old has been converted from central midfield to central defence this season and is clearly flourishing in his new role, earning a call-up to the matchday squad for the Premier League game against Southampton a fortnight ago.
We caught up with Kean this week to discuss his new position, *that* red card against Sevilla and his thoughts on Vieira leaving for NYCFC…
My best position is…
I’ve been asked a lot which position I prefer – as long as I’m playing I’m not too fussed but I think I am going to end up as a centre back. That’s the position I feel most comfortable in – I think my best performances this season have been at the back.
On Vieira leaving for NYCFC…
I was gutted when he told us but I think it’s what he needs and he’s going to do very well over there. He’s done a lot for me personally as a player and as a person and we’ve won silverware together. He’s a fantastic coach. He’s had a huge impact on my career. He called me up to the EDS when I was just 15/16 and gave me the opportunity and that’s why I’m the player I am today. I’m really grateful to him and that’s what I told him the other day.
First-team call-up…
I think I’ve had a good season so far – obviously the highlight for me was being in the squad for the Southampton game. That was a good experience for me to travel with the first-team on a matchday. Obviously being promoted to captain was a proud moment for me – I think it’s matured me as a player and as a person. I’m grateful to Patrick for that.
Difference between EDS and first-team…
The focus is high when you’re with the first-team – it’s a lot quieter and everyone just zones in on the game. Obviously the level is higher than u21 level and I think you can see that in the dressing room before the game.
Training with the big boys…
It’s great training with the first-team – your standards are higher, you want to do well and impress but the important thing to do is to relax and not try too hard. The manager is going to like it when you’re relaxed and play your own game. You can’t feel under pressure and worry about who we’re training with. That’s the lifestyle we live and we’ve got to be up to scratch.
Taking stick…
They’ve all been good with me, especially when I was in the squad for Southampton and the night before when we were eating dinner together. I actually sat in Kolarov’s seat at night by accident. Gael and Raheem were giving me a bit of stick about it but thankfully Aleks didn’t make anything of it!
On the red card v Sevilla…
I couldn’t believe that I got sent off for what happened. If you watch the video, you can see it’s not a red card. It is what it is and I’ve got to take it on the chin. It’s frustrating but hopefully I’ll be able to play a part when the competition resumes in the New Year.
