Former players laud return of legend

THE doom and gloom has cleared. Bring on the French seems to be the message from a number of ex-internationals who expressed their delight at Roy Keane’s return to international football.

While France remain raging favourites to emerge from Ireland’s World Cup qualifying group, Keane’s presence against the European Champions has significantly increased our chances of qualifying for the 2006 World Cup, according to legendary defender Kevin Moran.

“If he comes back, it can only augur well for Ireland,” the former Manchester United and Irish international said yesterday. “The World Cup is coming up and Roy Keane in the setup gives Ireland a better chance for the qualifiers.