HOLDING BACK THE TEARS

Last updated : 12 February 2003 By Editor
Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr reckons that Roy Keane went back on 'an unequivocal commitment' to return to play for Ireland by retiring from international football.

Kerr claims that Keane had committed himself to returning to the Republic squad.

"I had a meeting with Roy Keane last Thursday for three hours, and the meeting went very, very well. I left the meeting very happy,"

"Roy gave me an unequivocal commitment he would be back to play in the team and that he would come to Scotland."

"However, he (Keane) met Alex Ferguson and the medical people at Manchester United.

"He (Keane) called me on Friday and said he had to rethink his decision (to return to the Ireland squad)."

Off to a bad start.

"I accepted his (Keane's) decision and wish him the best of luck," said Kerr.

"I made no commitment to the FAI that Roy would return.

He couldn't resist a swipe at Fergie though. Is this yet another example of public relations skills at OT?

"I had agreed with Alex Ferguson earlier today (Tuesday) that there would be no statement on the matter until after the (Scotland) game, until Thursday.

"It broke while I was on the training pitch so I'm a little disappointed obviously."

Oh well, it could be worse you could have just lost your best player!

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