17 November 2023 , 22:38
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Jason McAteer has hit back at Roy Keane after the Manchester United legend reignited their feud that dates back to their playing days.
Keane raised eyebrows with his recent comments while appearing on The Overlap, insisting that McAteer deserved the elbow that the ex-Red Devil flung his way during a clash against Sunderland in 2002. The Old Trafford hero also quashed any talk that the pair may have struck up a friendship during their time together with the Republic of Ireland national team.
Analysing the altercation in question, Keane claimed: "Just because you play with someone doesn't mean you're mates. Do you know what, he was one of these players who shout their mouths off. I didn't mind lads kicking me or booting me, honestly, but McAteer as usual had plenty to say for himself.
"But even then, I didn't deserve to be sent off in that game, absolutely not. If you look back on it, I didn't even catch him." During the same game, McAteer made "book-writing" gesture in reference to Keane's tell-all autobiography that was released the season prior.
It hasn't taken long for McAteer to issue a reply and the Irishman has not held back. Taking to social media, McAteer wrote: "Love it. Players shouting their mouths off !!! Funny You can’t shut the clown up now.
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"And no we weren’t team-mates cause he never showed up and when he did he went home !!!! Please !!!!! Bore off."
HAVE YOUR SAY!Was Keane wrong to revisit his feud with McAteer so publicly? Comment below
Roy Keane was sent off for elbowing Jason McAteerWithin his post, McAteer refers to Keane's infamous World Cup exit in 2002, where the United legend had a public fall-out with then-Ireland boss Mick McCarthy. The midfielder was soon sent home from Saipan amid a plethora of criticism and question marks over his commitment to the national team.
Keane's issues stemmed from being unhappy with the organisation of Ireland's World Cup base, but the United icon made clear he has 'no regrets' over the way he handled it because he had 'no respect' for McCarthy.
Both enjoyed very respectable international careers, but it is Keane who is viewed as the bigger legend even after his World Cup walkout. The Sky Sports regular made 67 appearances with 10 goals throw in, superior to McAteer's 54 outings and three goals.
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