Keane considered quitting football altogether

Manchester United skipper Roy Keane discussed the prospect of retirement with Old Trafford officials as he sought treatment for his long-standing hip problem.

The 31-year-old announced last night that he would not be resuming his career with the Republic of Ireland on medical grounds even though new national boss Brian Kerr thought Keane had agreed to return to the fold following his much-publicised World Cup bust-up with Mick McCarthy.

Keane's decision has received a mixed reception, with some fans accusing United manager Alex Ferguson of applying undue pressure on his captain to retire from the international arena.

However, United have today issued a statement this afternoon which makes it clear just how potentially serious the hip injury which plagued Keane last season, had become.

"The orthopaedic surgeon said it was a serious, potentially career-threatening injury," said the statement.

"With slow and very careful rehabilitation, Roy has made a good recovery from surgery. The possibility of retirement from the game following the surgery was discussed but Roy decided it was not the course of action he wanted to take."