Like Jack, I’m Indebted To Hodgson, Say Keanu

HE GREW up playing with stars like Jack Wilshere and England C boss Paul Fairclough says he’s as quick as Theo Walcott – so it is little surprise Keanu Marsh-Brown has big aspirations.

Having started at Arsenal, the rapid winger was a regular on the Fulham bench during their famous run to the Europa League final in 2010.

After spells at Oldham and Yeovil, the 21-year-old is trying to kickstart his career at Barnet.

Now playing some of the best football of his career, the youngster has won his first England C cap – an international honour that will sit nicely alongside more than 30 others from England Under-16s right through the age groups to Under-20s.

“It’s been a long journey but I want to get my head down and get my football back on track at Barnet,” Marsh-Brown said.
“I started at Arsenal and went to Fulham where I did my scholarship. I was involved with the first team quite a bit as well as a lot of different international levels.

“Fulham was a great experience. Roy Hodgson put me in the first team at a young age, he trusted in my ability, and I was on the bench for most of the Europa League games like Shakhtar Donetsk and Juventus.

“It was amazing. I was just turning 18 and going over to Italy and on the bench with 80,000 fans in the stadium, they’re memories you’ll never forget.

“One minute I’m on the bench and then the next I’m warming up next to Del Piero.

“There were a lot of players who helped me out, like Danny Murphy, and I owe a big thanks to Roy Hodgson and all his coaching staff.”

Marsh-Brown’s technical ability was clear to see with the Latvia defence at times hypnotised by his quick feet.

“I really enjoyed it,” Marsh-Brown said.

“I was given a free role in the front three and Paul Fairclough told me to express myself. That gave me the confidence to do what I can do – it’s always nice to hear that from a manager.

“I should have had two goals though – one in the first half and one in the second – but the keeper pulled off good saves.”

With Ipswich Town reportedly interested in his services during the last transfer window, Marsh-Brown is already attracting attention.

And he takes heart from past England C graduates as well as friend and former team-mate Wilshere.

“From a young age you could see how hard he worked.” Marsh-Brown said. “I was alongside him all the way and in England squads. He’s someone who is a close friend but someone I can aspire to.

“Some people have asked my why am I here? But you’ve just got to deal with it, work hard and try to get back.

“Right now I think I’m playing some of my best football. Hopefully other people can see that.

“You’ve got to aim high. One day you play for England C and then a year down the line…who knows what can happen.”