First derby an anticlimax for Keane
Roy Keane admits he was unimpressed by his first Old Firm derby – because Rangers have been so poor this season.
Last week’s trip to Ibrox should have been a thrilling experience for the man who grew up supporting the Hoops. Instead, the Corkman found the clash with their biggest rivals underwhelming.
He said: “There was enjoyment from our side against Rangers last week but the reason for that was that we won the game.
“Probably because Rangers are so many points behind in the league, the game lacked that cutting edge in terms of atmosphere generated by their fans – and the early goal killed it.
“But I’ve been around the block a few times and, having been up to watch one or two Old Firm games, there were no shocks there. We went in, did the job and got back out again.”
The former Republic of Ireland and Manchester United skipper also claims he never expected to walk straight into the first team at Celtic – and still does not.
He added: “I was never worried that I wasn’t starting games. I have a lot of experience and said when I first came that the midfield players had done well. You must be patient, realistic. I was at a new club and coming back from injury. All these things come into it.
“And I had to be patient with myself, to tell myself it would take a few games to be fully ready. I still think it will be another few.”
