Irwin shocked at Keane departure

Denis Irwin has admitted he is shocked by Roy Keane’s decision to quit international football – but believes it will become an option taken far more frequently by Premiership players in the future.

Keane has turned his back on the Republic of Ireland on medical advice after the 31-year-old had originally informed new boss Brian Kerr that he would wear the green shirt again after his summer World Cup walk-out.