Keane case was woeful exploitation of celebrity

It is regrettable that the Republic of Ireland’s assistant manager, Roy Keane, should have been called before Manchester magistrates court.

These sort of accusations should have been struck out.

It is unfortunate that Keane, as a sports icon, finds himself in ‘the ownership’ of some fan,

who believes he should be given due recognition for simply being just that — a fan.

Fortunately, the judge was attuned to the issues at hand. The burden of proof could not be discharged.

The case was one of the most bizarre I have read recently.

And the whole incident while showing the perils of celebrity no doubt caused Mr Keane discomfort. It was a distraction that, considering his responsibilities, he could have done without.

David Lyons

Pier 19

Ushers Island

Dublin 8