Why Roy Keane refuses to play with Manchester United legends after skipping return to Old Trafford
Today, Roy Keane is best known for his sharp comments and part of that is down to his refusal to return to the football pitch.
'Keano' remains the Old Trafford favourite but has once again passed up the chance to make his mark on his former stomping ground.
His former Manchester United teammates Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes They tied their boots to The side of the club's legends on Saturday.
Keane, on the other hand, was carrying out his commentary duties during the Republic of Ireland's 2-0 defeat to England at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
However, that is not the reason why the former Irish captain decided not to play against his former team. Celtic at the charity match.
Keane has not returned to the pitch since announcing his retirement in 2006 after one season with the Hoops.
Why isn't Keane playing for Manchester United legends?
From Keane The ongoing feud with iconic Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson It is often mistakenly thought to be the reason for his absence.
The couple The long-standing dispute is well documented having led to Keane's bitter departure Since Old Trafford as a player in 2005.
But while he He still holds resentment towards his former mentorThe 53-year-old player said his physical condition prevents him from playing again.
Speaking on the Off the Ball podcast in 2022, Keane said: “I'm not fit. I'm far from fit. My fitness levels are actually very, very embarrassing.
“Just because I haven't put on much weight doesn't mean I'm fit. I couldn't run even a little bit.
“Let's put it this way, I've been invited a few times over the past few years to play legends games or whatever you want to call it.
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“It would be very difficult for me because I wouldn't be able to move. I would have too many injury problems.
“I try to eat a decent diet, obviously, and I'm afraid of putting on too much weight, but I certainly wouldn't be fit enough to go running.”
Injuries were the reason behind Keane's retirement as a player just six months after joining Celtic, where he only managed 13 appearances.
The retired midfielder tore his anterior cruciate ligament in 1997 and was sidelined for months with hip problems five years later.
Keane spent an illustrious 12 years at Manchester United where his accolades included seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League.
In his absence, Man United Legends were beaten 5-4 on penalties by Celtic after a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes.
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