Coming through at Cobh Ramblers, Keane soon signed for Nottingham Forest before arriving at Nottingham Forest. Over a 3-year spell, he established himself as an elite midfielder before joining Manchester United, staying there until 2005 before joining boyhood heroes Celtic.
What made Roy Keane so special?
Keane was a midfielder who had a habit of scoring big goals, but also tended to be a major outlet for avoiding pressure. His ability to hold onto the ball and progress it up the pitch was sublime. So was his ability to compete and to fill in for teammates as they made their way up the pitch.
The ultimate competitor, Keane was the perfect example of a midfielder who could do a bit of everything. While he tended to play with specialists, Keane could fill in any position in the United midfield. Added to that, he carried an indomitable spirit and a desire to win in every opportunity, no matter how difficult, showed best when he played a key role in taking United to the 1999 UEFA Champions League Final.
What does Roy Keane do now?
Having had several spells in coaching and in management, Keane today is mostly seen as a witheringly acerbic pundit who has no problem insulting former teammates, colleagues, and fellow professionals. Aside from the insulting terms, though, Keane is a respected analyst with a clear eye for what works and what does not – when you peel back the hyperbole, there is an inspiring, engaging professional waiting.