30 October 2023 , 07:25
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Roy Keane joked Manchester United fans were chanting about former Ireland teammate Robbie Keane towards two-goal striker Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian forward proved pivotal during Sunday’s 3-0 success at Old Trafford. He was twice on the scoresheet, his first goal coming from the penalty spot after Rodri had been fouled by Rasmus Hojlund.
Speaking post-match, Haaland revealed that members of the home support were chanting Keane’s name towards him ahead of his spot-kick. He said: “I felt a little bit [of pressure before the penalty], lots of people singing to me 'Keano', I don't know why! I had the pressure.
"I scored. It was a fantastic feeling. It was a nice celebration, both of them. I had pain in my knees after the assist from Bernardo!"
Haaland and Keane have history stretching back over two decades. The Irishman effectively ended his Dad - Alf Inge Haaland’s - playing career with a horrendous knee-high challenge in 2001.
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However, he joked that the chants from fans during the latest iteration of the Manchester derby were not about him. Speaking on Sky Sports after Sunday’s result, Keane joked: “I don’t know... Maybe they meant ‘Robbie’ Keane.”
It is not the first time that Haaland has earned a slight slice of revenge for his dad since his arrival at the Etihad Stadium. The 23-year-old scored a hat-trick in City’s 6-3 demolition over United just over a year ago - his record now sitting at five goals in just three league appearances against the Red Devils.
Erling Haaland was the target of 'Keano' chants from Man United fans at Old Trafford (Getty Images)What went wrong for Man United vs Man City? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Away from chants inspired by his name, Keane also gave a scathing assessment of his former side following another miserable outing. He believed that the Red Devils were possibly fortunate for having avoided an even heavier defeat.
"It could've [got worse], but I think City had another few levels to go, but they're obsessed with controlling the game and possession,” Keane added. “I think if they wanted to get a few more they would've done.
"United's keeper [Andre Onana] made two or three great saves, it could've been a lot worse for them today. A really poor day at the office for them - very, very poor. They are so far off it, it is hard to watch."
Erik ten Hag will be attempting to get his side back on track over this week with two testing fixtures. United first host Newcastle on Wednesday in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup before a weekend trip to Craven Cottage to take on Fulham.
Meanwhile, Haaland will be attempting to add to his goalscoring run next weekend. The striker has scored five goals in his last three games in all competitions ahead of a showdown with Bournemouth.