No World Cup U-turn for Keane

Roy Keane has tonight turned down the chance to rejoin the Irish World Cup squad.

Keane, thrown out of Ireland’s squad following a bust-up with manager Mick McCarthy, has released a statement saying he did not think it was in the best interests of the game, fans and players for him to return to the World Cup.

In a statement to RTE, Keane said: ‘‘I do not consider that the best interests of Irish football will be served by my returning to the World Cup. The damage has been done.’’

The Football Association of Ireland’s John Delaney said that this was closure in the matter.