Keane will regret his outburst, says Jack

FORMER Republic of Ireland manager Jack Charlton believes Roy Keane will regret his behaviour after being sent home in disgrace from the Irish World Cup squad.

The Manchester United midfielder launched an outspoken attack on the Republic’s World Cup preparations and was expelled by manager Mick McCarthy after peace talks turned into a slanging match.

McCarthy’s predecessor Charlton, who took Keane to the 1994 finals in the United States, said: ‘‘I think when Roy sits down and thinks about what he’s done he will have a few regrets.

‘‘You don’t walk out on a World Cup. He’s one of the best players in the world and he should be at the finals. He had his complaints about their preparations but that has nothing to do with the players.’’

Charlton reckons Keane’s departure from the squad will have grave consequences for their chances of success in the tournament.

‘‘Roy is one of the best players in the world. His work-rate and commitment are tremendous.

‘‘But we’ve got to be lucky to get through our group now. Things aren’t going well and it can’t be good for team spirit or morale.

‘‘It upsets me that this should have happened but we’ll have to get through it.’’

Charlton believes Keane will have to face the wrath of the fans after being sent home from the Saipan training camp yesterday.

Charlton, who was also in charge for Ireland’s World Cup campaign in 1990 told PA Sport: ‘‘Roy’s made a mistake and has got to live with the consequences. He’s got to face the anger of the fans.

‘‘This has spoilt the good times for the fans and I’m very unhappy it’s had to happen now.’’

But the 1966 World Cup winner with England was backing his successor in the Republic hot seat.

‘‘I have to back Mick in that situation. I don’t understand why Roy has done this.

‘‘Mick will have his reasons for what has happened and you can’t have players dictating what happens just days before the tournament starts.’’