LIKE father like son -- a former Preston North End goalkeeper is keeping it in the family - as his son has been snapped up by Manchester United to play in goals at the academy.

Glen Johnson, 36, played for North End in 1993 and 1994, and now his ten-year-old son, Sam, has been taken on by the Premiership champions and is being given specialist tuition in goal.

Glen, of Lowther Crescent, Leyland, said it all happened so quickly, but is thrilled for Sam who is clearly a chip off the old block.

Glen said: "He's tall and athletic and has the talent to be in goals. He will have to work hard now and the club make no promises.

"They have never had a goalie come up through the ranks as they always buy them.

"He may break the mould, which would be amazing, but if not the academy will give him the discipline and grounding to go on and play for another club."

A pupil at Seven Stars County Primary, Peacock Hall Road, Sam was discovered when he played for Euxton Villa. A scout for Manchester United saw him and invited the club's training ground.

It took only a month for the youngster to impress and he now trains three times a week as well as touring the country on Sundays to play against the opposition.

"He had the choice to play for Bolton, Blackburn and Preston, but Sam is a big Reds fan and no one else stood a chance really after that offer," said Glen.