Burnley defender Michael Keane remains in contact with Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand.

Ferdinand has proved to be a key figure in Keane's maturation into one of the Premier League's finest young centre-backs.

"I've known him since I was young and coming through at Man United he sort of stuck around and helped me out," Keane explained to the Daily Mail.

"I'm able to text him or call him when I want, and before big games he'll send me a text and give me a little bit of advice that will just stick in my head.

"He's been brilliant with me and I'm thankful for that - he's a legend and a great player, and someone I can learn a lot from.

"It was surreal at first, but it's something that you get used to.

"I've been around him quite a while now and I feel comfortable asking him questions and talking to him. At first I was a bit in awe of him. You get used to it."