Chelsea expect big things from Manchester United reject Kevin Strickland.

The 18 year-old defender was snapped up last month by Chelsea after being cut loose by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Strickland told the Skelmersdale Advertiser: "I do not really have footballing heroes, but I do try and take certain aspects from key players' games, such as Jamie Carragher's determination, Fabio Cannavaro's class on the ball and John Terry's sheer will to win and no nonsense approach.

"I have mixed with a few first team players now, and what stands them out is that extra level of sharpness and strength.

"In one training session I apologised for a poor pass, but Ray Wilkins said to me not to worry and just track back after a mistake."