Irish stars back Keane axing

The Ireland squad has rallied behind manager Mick McCarthy and insisted they do not want former captain Roy Keane back in the World Cup squad.

Manchester United midfielder Keane told RTE he would not rule out a return to the squad, although he refused to apologise to McCarthy for the furious row which led to his expulsion.

The Irish squad this morning issued a statement backing McCarthy’s decision. Irish Football Association press officer Brendan McKenna read the statement to a press conference.

It said: ‘‘Regrettably the manner of Roy’s behaviour prior to his departure from Saipan and the comments attributed to him since have left the staff and players in no doubt that the interests of the squad are best served without Roy’s presence.

‘‘The players bear no malice towards Roy on a personal level and are looking forward to a successful World Cup campaign with the continued support of our loyal supporters both home and abroad.’’