Kilbane: McCarthy has edge on Keane

Kevin Kilbane has taken issue with Alex Ferguson’s criticism of Roy Keane’s managerial abilities, and says the Corkman would be only narrowly behind Mick McCarthy as his choice to be Ireland’s next manager.

“I saw Alex Ferguson saying Roy wasn’t a success as a manager,” said former international Kilbane. “How can you say he wasn’t a success? He took a team from the bottom of the Championship and got them promoted. Regardless of what finances he had, that is an incredible achievement. I’ve played in that league and I know how difficult it is to get out of it. He got them up and kept them up as well.

“I know they finished 17th and that probably didn’t meet Roy’s expectations of what he wanted to do but he’s been a wonderful success. And he’s Irish and he wants the best for the players. So why would people rule him out? He’s a great footballing man and wants the best for Irish football. That for me is the most important thing.”