Roy Keane, who departed the Irish international team in controversial circumstances two years ago, is ready and willing to play for his country again.
The Manchester United star hasn't played for Ireland since his infamous bust-up in Saipan with former manager Mick McCarthy just before the start of the 2002 World Cup, but a statement, released to RTÉ via Keane's agent, Michael Kennedy, this afternoon read: "Following discussions with Brian Kerr and Alex Ferguson, Roy Keane has agreed to make himself available for selection international games in the future."
The FAI later confirmed the news in a statement of their own, with Kerr welcoming the prodigal midfielder back into the fold. He said: "I am glad that one of the greatest players ever to play for Ireland has chosen this path. It cannot have been an easy decision for him but his desire to represent his country is immense.
"We met last week and discussed everything about his decision in great detail. He had addressed the issue with his club before that meeting and they are aware of his decision to make himself available for international duty with immediate effect."
The Irish manager added: "I look forward to working with Roy Keane. He brings quality and experience to a potentially excellent squad of players whose sole focus is the World Cup qualifying matches next autumn."
Kerr also revealed that Manchester United were the stumbling block to an earlier return. Keane was linked with a return to international football when Kerr took over from McCarthy and even hinted that he would play for Kerr, however the former Irish captain made a swift u-turn, citing fitness concerns.
Kerr said: "Since our initial meeting following my appointment fifteen months ago, when the player had clearly indicated his desire to play for Ireland, we have been in occasional contact. The issue for him was establishing a basis by which his club, Manchester United, would facilitate that desire. Roy Keane had to resolve that problem himself."
FAI chief executive Fran Rooney said: ”We look forward to Roy Keane playing for Ireland again. It is important that we should have all our top players available for the forthcoming World Cup campaign.
"Roy's decision to return is evidence of the new professionalism within the FAI and of Brian Kerr’s professional approach within the squad. Ireland faces tough opposition in the World Cup qualifiers and Roy’s presence will be a huge boost in our quest for qualification."
Ireland's next match is a friendly away to Poland in Bydgoszcz on April 28, however, it remains to be seen when the Corkman will make his comeback. Kerr's troops have further friendlies against Romania at Lansdowne Road on May 27 and against Holland in Amsterdam on June 5. A match against Nigeria in England is also thought to be in the pipeline. Ireland kick off their Group 4 qualifying campaign for the 2006 World Cup at Lansdowne Road against Cyprus on September 4.
Filed by Rob Wright
