Injury forces Roy Keane out of Irish squad

Roy Keane today pulled out of the Republic of Ireland squad to face Poland with a hamstring injury.

The Manchester United midfielder was set to make a much-trumpeted return to the Irish team following his bitter fall-out with former national team manager Mick McCarthy.

Brian Kerr, McCarthy’s replacement, persuaded Keane to go back on his decision to retire but will have to adjust his plans following Keane’s withdrawal.

Republic of Ireland assistant manager Chris Hughton said: "Roy has a hamstring injury. He wanted to travel but it was pointless him going to Poland."

Hughton praised the United skipper’s attitude, saying: “He was very upset about it. He really wanted to make the trip.”

The Republic players had a light training session and, although Keane came through unscathed, it appears he may have been carrying the injury.