O'Neill backs Keane arrival

Former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill believes the competitive spirit of Roy Keane will be a major boost for the Hoops.

The former Manchester United midfielder has signed an 18-month contract with the Glasgow giants after leaving Old Trafford by mutual consent last month.

The Irishman comes with a reputation for outspoken comments but the ex-Celtic boss has backed Gordon Strachan and the club’s decision to bring him to Scotland.

O’Neill told BBC Five Live: “If I had been the manager, I would taken him. He can offer Celtic an awful lot. Roy Keane has the competitive instincts that has set him apart.

“Loads and loads of footballers across the country are competitive - generally, professional players thrive on that.

“But Roy Keane has something special. He is a wonderful footballer – one of the great players Manchester United have had over the 30, 40, 50 years.”

O’Neill left Celtic Park in the summer to care for his sick wife, Geraldine.

Strachan succeeded the former Leicester manager and has guided the club to the top of the Bank of Scotland Premier League.