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The Incredible Moment Roy Keane Returned To Play For Manchester United 12 Years On

The Incredible Moment Roy Keane Returned To Play For Manchester United 12 Years On

What a reception he got...

Josh Lawless

Josh Lawless

12 years on from his testimonial at Old Trafford, Roy Keane pulled on the Manchester United shirt once again today.

The Irishman won 17 major trophies at United, including seven league titles - and he is still widely viewed as one of their greatest ever captains despite his tempestuous exit from the club in 2005.

His relationship with the club has soured but today he was back in United colours, wearing the No.16, pulling on the armband and playing alongside a slew of legends in a nostalgic scene for United fans.

Image: PA
Image: PA

Keane was player/manager for the tribute match in honour of Liam Miller, his former teammate and fellow Corkman who sadly passed away aged 36 in February following a battle with cancer.

42,878 fans turned out to see former a Celtic/Republic of Ireland XI and United honour former Republic of Ireland international Miller at Pairc Ui Chaoimh, with the money raised going to his family as well as a few charities.

Image: PA
Image: PA

And Keane, back in his home city, received a predictably massive ovation when he replaced Ryan Giggs on the hour mark.

Following a 2-2 draw, the game went to penalties and despite Keane having his effort saved by his fellow Irishman David Forde, his United side emerged victorious.

Still, it was all about remembering Miller. After the game, Republic of Ireland assistant Keane praised the turn-out from supporters - and also players who travelled far and wide to play in the fixture.

"The turn-out from the fans was fantastic and it was a fine tribute to Liam and his family," he said as quoted by the BBC.

"A lot of players have travelled over for the game, from both teams, and we are grateful for that. It was nice to get the boots on again and get out there for a kick-about with some of my old team-mates."

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Football News, Celtic, Football, Manchester United, Roy Keane