Keane will return to Old Trafford as a Bhoy

MANCHESTER UNITED will play Celtic in Roy Keane's testimonial at Old Trafford on Tuesday, May 9.

A widely-anticipated announcement has now confirmed Keane's decision to take up the offer of a testimonial, which formed part of the deal that saw him leave United in November.

Although notoriously critical of testimonial games, Keane is expected to donate most of the proceeds to charity and has already declared his intention to release 1,000 free tickets to local Manchester schools and United supporters' clubs.

Keane's departure from Old Trafford stunned the football world.

After winning seven Premiership titles and four FA Cups - famously missing out on the 1999 Champions League Final due to suspension - many expected Keane to be offered a coaching role by Ferguson when the current season came to an end.

Instead, his 480-game career at United came to an end in a blaze of publicity following an attack on his team-mates during an MUTV interview, which was deemed too damaging to broadcast.

Keane has since played down the role of the interview in hastening his departure, insisting his relationship with Ferguson had just reached 'the end of the line'.

However, the 34-year-old's departure has clearly not lessened Ferguson's opinion of him as a player.

"This is something we wanted to do this season because Roy started the season with us," said Ferguson.

"The supporters want to recognise the unbelievable contribution and success he had with Manchester United.

"He was a fantastic player and captain for me and I hope he gets the proper send off he truly deserves.

"It will be a fantastic night for everyone."

Although there was wild speculation over where the Irishman might end up after he left United, Keane eventually opted to move into the Scottish Premier League with his beloved Celtic, lifting his first trophy with the Hoops following their recent CIS Insurance Cup Final win over Dunfermline.

Currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, Keane still needs to play another four games for the Hoops to qualify for a title medal but he is expected to be fit to face United in what is sure to be a sell-out crowd, and, given his long-standing hip problem, could yet be his final game as a professional.