Vieira welcomes Roy’s return

ROY KEANE’S return to international football with Ireland was welcomed yesterday by the outstanding French midfielder, Patrick Vieira.

Vieira, outstanding for France in both Euro 2004 matches against England and Croatia, said he had always enjoyed his battles with Keane and said the United skipper had urged him to appeal a booking he received in one match against United after the pair had clashed in midfield.

Vieira said: “It’s very good for Ireland and Roy Keane that he has returned to international football. He’s been so important for Ireland for more than 10 years and I know he will be again.”