Joe Riley led Warrington Rylands to a 2-0 lead at Fibrus Community Stadium in a chaotic Northern Premier League encounter. The 29-year-old defender reflects on his journey since starting at left-back for Manchester United against Midtjylland in 2016. Riley made his Europa League debut at Old Trafford at age 19 alongside Marcus Rashford, who went on to play over 400 games for the club.

While Rashford established himself as a first-team regular, Riley was released at 21 with only two senior appearances. He subsequently recovered from injuries while studying for a new career, now selling life insurance and income protection. Riley grew up in Lytham, Lancashire, and played alongside Scott Mc Tominay and Dean Henderson in United's academy.

He recalls the surreal experience of starting against Wayne Rooney's Manchester United, receiving a standing ovation before being replaced by Marcos Rojo. Though he did not appear again for the senior side, Riley says he is happy it happened and is progressing with a new career setting him up for life beyond football.