Soccer: Haaland stokes up war with Keane

Alfie Haaland has inflamed his war of words with Roy Keane with an outspoken attack on the troubled Manchester United skipper.

Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain Keane received his eighth red card in as many seasons for United following his horrific studs-up lunge on Haaland in last week's Manchester derby.

And it was while fouling former Leeds man Haaland at Elland Road in 1997 that Keane suffered the cruciate ligament injury that forced him to sit out the following season.

Self-confessed United hater Haaland said: "I don't think Roy Keane is in mental balance. I don't think he is mentally right."

Haaland has found himself in a storm of his own making after being pictured next to some inflammatory anti-Manchester United graffiti by a television crew on the streets near Maine Road.

As well as revealing his dislike for United and the club's players he also accused Keane of cowardice because the former Nottingham Forest star would not look him in the eye.

"He never dare look at me in the eyes before a match," said Haaland. "I really dislike United and I can't stand their players."

Haaland said he could not repeat what Keane said to him as he left the pitch following last week's red card.

"Telling that would be throwing petrol on to a burning fire - but he did not wish me well.

"It is the worst tackle I've ever experienced in football. It could have ended my career," he said before adding: "Until he looks me in the eye I don't think this is over."