By Chris O'Brien
May 19 2005

Sir Alex Ferguson and Kieran Richardson are set to discuss the 20-year-old's future, having spent a successful loan spell at West Bromwich Albion. Some quality form at the Hawthorns has seen the winger earn a shock England call-up.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted that Kieran Richardson may play a key part in the club's future. A superb few months on loan at West Bromwich Albion have seen the 20-year-old called up to the recent England squad for a pre-season tour of North America, and the versatile midfielder now aims to break into the Red Devils first-team.

"I am delighted how things have worked out for him. I saw his performance in Sunday's game and it is terrific that he has been picked for England. I spoke to Kieran's father yesterday. Something cropped up which meant we had to cancel the original meeting but hopefully we can sit down next week and map out his future."

Richardson played an integral part in the Baggies' 'great escape'. They spent the majority of the season languishing at the bottom of the Premiership, and were run-away favourites to make an immediate return to the Football League Championship. However, some shrewd business from former Red 'Captain Marvel' Bryan Robson saw the Midlands outfit gradually improve, and a 2-0 final day win at home to Portsmouth proved enough to keep the club in England's top flight for at least another year.