Thrown in with Giggs and Beckham: how Manchester United tried to get Billy Kenny

In an extract from his autobiography, former Everton midfielder Billy Kenny recalled his youth trial at Manchester United and manager Alex Ferguson's pursuit of him. Kenny described arriving at The Cliff, where he was welcomed warmly by Ferguson, Brian Kidd, and senior players including Brian McClair. During his trial, Kenny played in midfield alongside Ryan Wilson, who later took the surname Giggs, and bonded with fellow trialist Tommy Harrison.

Kenny also detailed watching a 12- or 13-year-old David Beckham impress spectators with his extraordinary technique and passing. Despite struggling with homesickness during the trial, Kenny was supported by Kidd and Eric Harrison before Ferguson offered him a guaranteed three-year professional contract.