Manchester United’s unrivalled period of success under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson was largely driven on the pitch by midfield general Roy Keane.
The Irishman was a key cog in the winning wheel that dominated English football for over a decade before he eventually left Old Trafford in 2014.
Keane’s 12-year stay ended in controversial fashion after a public falling out with Ferguson left him seeking pastures new, north of the border at Celtic.
As reported by MSN News, Keane has opened up on the final moments of his time at United which saw him win seven Premier League titles and a raft of cup competitions.
Speaking on The Overlap sponsored by Sky Bet, Keane revealed he was upset with the way his time in Manchester came to an end.
“When I left United, I did cry that morning. Cried in my car,” he said.
The Treble winner then said despite his respect for United, he isn’t a fan of the club, nor his other previous club in England, Nottingham Forest.
“I don’t have that affinity with the clubs I’ve played for. I don’t support Manchester United. I don’t support Nottingham Forest,” said Keane.
The former midfielder added that he looks at United in a professional capacity these days and the results of the team do not effect him on a personal level.
“I have more of an insight with how it works at the club (United) and the expectations, but I wouldn’t say that I’m a fan – their results don’t make or break my weekend. I wouldn’t go home going, ‘Get in there, that was a great win.’ I’d be looking at it in a professional way,” he said.
Despite his claims, Keane’s standing with United fans is undeniable given the leadership qualities he demonstrated during his time at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s current crop could certainly do with someone of Keane’s ability and desire in the middle of the park where they are far too lightweight at present.
Ironically, United continue their disastrous Premier League campaign against Keane’s boyhood club Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, with United out for revenge after Spurs beating them twice already this season.
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Conner Botterill
Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for two years. A keen match-going red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology, Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
