Stapleton backs FAI over Keane

Frank Stapleton reckons the Republic of Ireland are right to send Roy Keane home from the World Cup.

Stapleton believes Keane’s criticisms of Ireland’s preparations for the World Cup have undermined manager Mick McCarthy.

And the former Republic and Manchester United striker believes the Football Association of Ireland had no option but to send their skipper home.

‘‘There has obviously been a major disagreement and if Roy was beginning to criticise everything he (McCarthy) did then he had to do something,’’ Stapleton told Sky Sports.

‘‘You must remember that no one player is bigger than a team. In the end the good of the team is more important than one individual.

‘‘Despite what Roy gives the team he can’t be bigger than the team.

‘‘I think it will be a major disappointment to Roy when he looks back that he hasn’t played in the tournament.’’