Players 'jealous' of Keane, say United fans

Roy Keane’s fans at Manchester United today backed their hero in his amazing row with Mick McCarthy - and accused Keane’s former Ireland team-mates of "jealousy".

The Irish players today issued a statement claiming they are ‘‘in no doubt the interests of the squad are best served without Roy.’’

That seemed to kill any lingering hope that Old Trafford favourite Keane could be recalled to Japan in time for Saturday’s World Cup opener against Cameroon in Niigata.

Ireland’s star player was sent home after Thursday’s bust-up with McCarthy - and the decision of the remaining 22 players to speak out against their world-class midfielder sparked a fierce response from the Independent Manchester United Supporters Association.

Chairman Mark Longden said: ‘‘It’s unusual for professional footballers not to support each other in any circumstances.

‘‘The players here rallied behind Keane when he was sent off in the FA Cup semi--final - and also supported Eric Cantona when he was sent off at Crystal Palace and David Beckham after the Argentina match in France 98.

‘‘That’s how things are done at professional football clubs, so it illustrates the amateurism of the Irish set-up. And the players’ statement vindicates what Keane said about the way the squad is run, as you would never have dirty washing aired in public at Old Trafford.

‘‘I’d have said it’s down to jealousy - if you look at the rest of the squad, there’s not a medal between them. Most of them have realised they’re not going to win anything, so the World Cup’s a holiday.

‘‘I don’t think Roy Keane would have that. He’s a born winner, and if Manchester United lose, he walks off with a face like thunder. He can’t tolerate people who don’t feel the same way.’’

Keane’s agent Michael Kennedy is believed to be formulating a statement in response to the criticism of his client by Ireland’s depleted squad.