The former Ireland captain enjoyed a decorated playing career, winning seven Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Intercontinental Cup, and four FA Cups with Manchester United. He also led Sunderland to promotion to the Premier League in his first managerial role.

However, Keane revealed that his time as Ireland’s assistant manager between 2013 and 2018, which included a memorable Euro 2016 campaign where the team defeated Italy to reach the last 16, was just as fulfilling as any of his previous achievements.

Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, where O’Neill appeared as a guest, Keane reflected on those years with great fondness.

“I look back on my career, and working with Martin, particularly reaching the Euros, was probably the highlight,” Keane said. “It might sound strange because I loved playing, but our time with Ireland was special.

“I just loved everything about it—the energy of the group, the dynamics, working with Martin and the other staff. There was a real feel-good factor.

“The squad was decent. We may have lacked an out-and-out goalscorer or some extra quality, but we still reached the Euros and the World Cup play-offs. It was one of the best experiences of my life.”

Despite their success, Ireland fell short of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup after a play-off defeat to a Denmark side inspired by Christian Eriksen. O’Neill and Keane left their roles in November 2018 following a disappointing Nations League campaign.

Keane also made headlines during his tenure due to a leaked WhatsApp message detailing a training ground confrontation with players Harry Arter and Jon Walters. However, the 53-year-old stood by his actions.

“The few players I clashed with in Ireland, I have no problem with that because they weren’t doing what was expected,” Keane said. “I’d regret it more if I had stayed quiet and said nothing.”


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Hello reader, I'm Ben. I love to write and talk about sports and I am, unfortunately, hopeless at golf. Thanks for reading! 

Ben Lynch