Keane’s crossed enemy lines

Michael Keane is looking forward to playing for the Clarets this time around

The 22-year-old was handed an extreme baptism of fire by Ewood boss Gary Bowyer as he made his debut in the fixture on March 9th, 2014.

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Keane, who had spent time on loan at Derby County earlier that season, joined from Manchester United on a temporary basis and partnered Grant Hanley at the heart of the Rovers defence at the expense of Matt Kilgallon.

After trading the blue and white of Rovers for the claret and blue of Burnley, the former England Under 21 international said: “It’s a big game and it’s massive for all the fans. It’ll be interesting as I was there a few years ago. It’ll be good to see a few familiar faces but I won’t be going for anything other than the win for Burnley. I know how much it means to everyone in this area and I can’t wait.

“It was the best atmosphere I’ve played in. At the time I was disappointed we lost but now I’ll be hoping for the other result. It’s a bit strange but I can’t wait. It’ll be good. The first 10 minutes I couldn’t hear myself speak.

“Both sets of fans went crazy. It was a good game as well. We went 1-0 up but Burnley scored two good goals which helped them get promoted in the end.”

Keane, who scored three goals in 13 appearances for Rovers, added: “Like in any derby you’re desperate to win - more than any other game in a season.

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“I’m not expecting a good reception, we’ll have to see - but I doubt it. I think the fans liked me there as well though. I played well and scored a few goals. They seemed to take to me.”

• Match report: Blackburn Rovers 1, Burnley 2