Tough, no-nonsense and full of running, the older of United’s two Eckersley brothers has quickly risen through the Old Trafford ranks. After playing an integral part in the Reserves’ 2004/05 quadruple campaign, he continued to turn in solid performances for the second string until he was handed his first team debut. The youngster gave another sturdy account of himself in United's 4-1 Carling Cup win over Barnet at Old Trafford - even picking up a booking in another combative display. At the turn of the year, Adam was one of five young Reds sent to Belgian side Royal Antwerp to gain valuable first team experience and sample foreign culture. A virtual ever-present throughout his stint in Belgium, Eckersley quickly made the step up and became a fans’ favourite. His willingness to bomb forward in support of his attacking colleagues was finally rewarded with a scorching strike against Union St. Gilloise in April 2006, his first goal in competitive senior football. Another loan beckoned for Adam at the start of the 2006/07 season as he followed former Reserves manager Rene Meulensteen to Danish giants Brondby. Although his spell in Denmark was severely dented by a hamstring injury, Eckersley's development continues apace.
