The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed that Roy Keane is to play again for the national team.
The Manchester United skipper held talks with Irish coach Brian Kerr and made it clear he wanted to be considered for international duty again.
Keane retired from international football after row with ex-manager Mick McCarthy on the eve of the 2002 World Cup finals. The player flew home from a training camp just before the World Cup and said he would not play for Ireland again while McCarthy was in charge.
McCarthy’s resignation later that year prompted speculation that Keane would return to the international fold. However, until today’s announcement, Keane, citing longstanding injury problems, claimed a return would shorten his playing career.
