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Manchester United, England defender Ashley Young’s got 2 things on his mind

The 32-year-old is expected to make the cut for Gareth Southgate’s England World Cup squad.

Manchester United, England defender Ashley Young’s got 2 things on his mind

England and Manchester United defender Ashley Young (Photo: AFP)

England and Manchester United fullback Ashley Young is targeting FA Cup glory with the Red Devils and is hoping to get called up by Gareth Southgate for England’s squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

“It’s been a massive boost for me, playing week in and week out,” Young told MUTV.

“I’m playing in a new position and feel like I can adapt. I’ve got a good footballing brain. I know where to be on the pitch and when to attack and when to defend.”

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Young, contrary to expectations at the start of the season, has established himself as Jose Mourinho’s first-choice left-back and has made over 30 starts for the Red Devils across all competitions.

“I’ve enjoyed the season and it’s gone even better than I had thought as I’ve got myself back in the England squad. Fingers crossed for when the squad is announced, hopefully that would be an achievement in itself.”

Interestingly, despite having 30 appearances for the Three Lions, the 32-year-old has never represented his country at the FIFA World Cup.

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And while Young insisted the entire United squad was focused on Saturday’s FA Cup final with Chelsea, he admitted that just one piece of silverware isn’t enough for a club of their stature.

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“If we win at the weekend, and finishing second, it will be a very good campaign but, if you ask all the players and staff, winning the league is where we need to be at. I think that’s the disappointment but, overall, I think it’s been a good season and, if we win the FA Cup, it’s been a very good season.”

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“Of course there’s excitement (for the final). There is not anyone who is not excited. We’ve been there before and must prepare this week in the right way, which we will do. Everybody is wanting to be starting, wanting to play, and I’m no different.”

United take on the Blues in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on May 19. Kick off is scheduled for 21.45 IST.

“I want to play in the FA Cup final and obviously want success. There is no better feeling than when you win the FA Cup and walk up those stairs to pick up that trophy. Hopefully, we can do that,”the converted fullback added.

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