Flashback: Roy Keane retires from international football on this day in 2005

Roy Keane announced his retirement from international football on this day in 2005 after the Republic of Ireland failed to qualify for the World Cup.
By Sports Desk
Published 14th Oct 2020, 06:00 BST
Ireland's Roy Keane looks dejected before the World Cup Qualifying Group Four match against Israel played at the National Stadium March 26, 2005 in Ramat Gan, Israel. (Photo by Uriel Sinai/Getty Images).Ireland's Roy Keane looks dejected before the World Cup Qualifying Group Four match against Israel played at the National Stadium March 26, 2005 in Ramat Gan, Israel. (Photo by Uriel Sinai/Getty Images).
Ireland's Roy Keane looks dejected before the World Cup Qualifying Group Four match against Israel played at the National Stadium March 26, 2005 in Ramat Gan, Israel. (Photo by Uriel Sinai/Getty Images).

Former Manchester United midfielder Keane confirmed his decision two days after Ireland’s 0-0 home draw against Switzerland in their final qualifying match had left them fourth in their group.

Keane, who had missed the game in Dublin through injury, said the time had come for him “to concentrate on domestic football”.

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It was the second time he had retired from the international scene, the first being in 2002 following his bust-up with then manager Mick McCarthy at the 2002 World Cup finals.

Keane’s last appearance for his country was in September 2005, in a 1-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to France at Landsdowne Road.

He made a total of 67 appearances for Ireland following his debut under former boss Jack Charlton in a 1-1 friendly draw against Chile in 1991 and scored nine goals.

Related topics:Republic of IrelandIrelandManchester UnitedMick McCarthySwitzerland

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