way-hay - come on you boys in green!!!
Keane makes himself available for Irish team
13 April 2004 16:55
The Manchester United captain, Roy Keane, has announced he is making himself available for selection for future Ireland international matches.
Mr Keane, who departed from the Irish international team during the World Cup two years ago, issued a statement, via his agent, to RTÃ? News this afternoon.
The development follows discussions with the manager of the Irish team, Brian Kerr and the manager of Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson.
In a telephone call to RTÃ? News, Mr Keane's agent, Michael Kennedy said that 'following discussions with Brian Kerr and Alex Ferguson, Roy Keane has agreed to make himself available for selection for international games in the future'.
Reacting to the news in an FAI statement, Mr Kerr said he was delighted at Mr Keane's decision, and added that he would look forward to working with the Cork midfielder.
'He brings quality and experience to a potentially excellent squad of players whose sole focus is the World Cup qualifying matches next autumn,' Mr Kerr said.
The Irish team is due to begin its qualifying campaign for the 2006 World Cup in September against Cyprus.