Fergie: Let Ireland focus on football

Alex Ferguson says everyone should follow Roy Keane's example - and give the Republic of Ireland space to concentrate on their World Cup campaign.

Keane has turned down the opportunity to offer an apology to Mick McCarthy and return to the Ireland camp.

Keane said he will now step out of the limelight to allow his country to continue with their preparations for their opening game against Cameroon.

Ferguson himself knows the pressures of being a national team coach, having briefly filled the Scotland post, and he too believes Ireland should now be given the backing to do well in the World Cup.

The Manchester United boss said: "Roy Keane put it to bed yesterday and that is now where it should lie.

"My recollection of the time in Mexico is of the amount of pressure on you as a coach and the preparation you need, the concentration you need and the time you need.

"I think it is so important that Ireland do well and that they are allowed to do well.

"Roy's expressed wish is for that to happen. Yes, we are all disappointed and Roy is disappointed."