Van Gaal eyes Keane as United sidekick

Louis Van Gaal’s prospective appointment as the new Manchester United manager this summer could spell bad news for the FAI as the Dutchman is looking towards having Roy Keane as his assistant, the Irish Examiner understands.

The 62-year-old veteran will only accept the chance of fulfilling his ambition to manage in England if he’s got a sidekick to work alongside that is familiar with the terrain.

While Ryan Giggs, installed as manager yesterday in place of the sacked David Moyes on a temporary basis, would appear to meet the criteria, Van Gaal is understood to favour a fresh voice and someone with at least some level of managerial experience behind him.