Roy Keane has jokingly claimed he and the Manchester United squad had concerns about Gary Neville when he first broke into the Red Devils team.
Neville was part of the Class of 92 which became the foundations of the club's stunning period of dominance for years to come. Alongside David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt and his own brother Phil, Neville came through the ranks at Old Trafford.
He was handed his senior debut in 1992, before eventually becoming United's first-choice right-back during the 1994/1995 campaign. By that point, Keane had established himself as a key member of the Red Devils' midfield and was a senior member of the squad.
And the Irishman has now opened up on his experience of welcoming Neville into the United first-team. He joked that there were concerns about the Englishman, but insisted that bringing players through from the academy was key for big clubs.
"We were doubtful honestly when Gary came along, he won't last. Becks, Schoesly, Giggs, the rest of them had a chance. But no, it's great for the club to have lads come through the academy," Keane told Sky Sports.
"We've seen with the Arsenal lads, the fans can identify with them, particularly if they're local lads. And the beauty of lads like Gary and the lads coming through is when you get an opportunity, it's about taking it.
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"A lot of the lads do get a chance but don't take it. But these lads at Arsenal have done it, obviously Gary and the other lads at United.
"It's so important for the club, recruitment is vital, you have to go out and spend big money, but to get young lads through and do so well is very nice to see."
Neville went on to become a club legend at Old Trafford, winning 20 major honours in total. He also became United's captain for the final six years of his time with the club, earning the respect of legendary Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
"Gary is an example to any young professional, hard-working, loyal and intelligent. His impact on the club in general has been huge," Ferguson said when Neville retired midway through the 2010/2011 campaign.
"His presence in the dressing room and leadership qualities have been an asset to me as a manager. As a young boy he had the will and determination to succeed as a footballer and that character remained with him throughout his career."
