Keane: One of the Bhoys
It may have been short, but Roy Keane’s Celtic career still added to his bulging silverware collection.
The former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder has called time on his playing career on medical advice after just 13 appearances for the Glasgow giants.
The 34-year-old had been debating the long-term effects of a hip injury and has now decided to end his days on the field.
There was little surprise when Keane opted for a move to Celtic Park but, at his unveiling in December 2005, he admitted interest from Real Madrid had also been forthcoming.
The Corkman grew up as a Tottenham supporter in his native Cork, with Glenn Hoddle his favourite player.
But, after a number of trips to Celtic matches at the invitation of friends, Keane became one of the Bhoys.
The Old Trafford legend was pictured among Celtic supporters during an Old Firm derby at Ibrox, although an attempted disguise using a baseball cap failed to hide the famous fan.
Then, after his notorious MUTV interview in November – where Keane openly criticised some team-mates after a 4-1 defeat at Middlesbrough – the door opened for Celtic.
The midfielder and United reached agreement on the termination of his contract.
Everton, Bolton and the Spanish giants all spoke to the player – but only one destination truly interested Keane.
And, on December 15 2005, the 18-month deal was signed.
Keane said at the time: “Having spoken to the manager (Strachan), I thought this is the club for me. I have met one or two of the players and feel this is where I belong.”
But Keane’s debut for the Hoops was not the smoothest ride.
On January 8 this year, Celtic travelled along the A80 to Cumbernauld where First Division Clyde were waiting in the Tennents Scottish Cup third round.
Television cameras surrounded Broadwood in a bid to record as much as possible of Keane’s debut.
Little did anyone expect the outcome as goals from Craig Bryson and Eddie Malone overshadowed the Irishman’s first appearance for Celtic.
Keane made his home debut six days later in a 4-2 win over Kilmarnock which kept the Hoops seven points clear of Hearts at the top of the Bank of Scotland Premier League.
After a late substitute appearance in the CIS Insurance Cup semi-final win over Motherwell, Keane would soon be celebrating his one and only goal for Celtic.
Firing home from 22 yards in the 34th minute of the win over Falkirk, Keane celebrated in front of Celtic fans with the same gusto of some tackles in his armoury.
Four days later, the Hoops player would prove his class as he prompted a single-goal win at Rangers in his first Old Firm derby.
Keane was now fully settled into life with Celtic – and, more importantly, alongside Neil Lennon in midfield.
Where many had predicted too many similarities between the two men, the 34-year-olds were proving to be a strong unit.
Indeed, Keane’s holding role in the 8-1 win at Dunfermline allowed Lennon to move forward and score his first goal for the club in five years.
While the Glasgow giants were heading towards the SPL title without obstacle, the Pars would feature highly for Keane three weeks after the record SPL triumph.
Keane collected his first winner’s medal with the Hoops when a 3-0 win over the Fife club saw the CIS Cup return to Celtic Park.
Now the eyes of Keane and Celtic were on the biggest domestic prize.
Injury was to rob him of the chance to play his part on the path to the SPL title.
The win at Hampden Park had also prompted a hamstring injury which saw Keane miss the championship-winning victory over Hearts on April 5.
But his return to action before the celebrations when the trophy was presented to Celtic after the 1-1 draw with Hibernian was hugely welcomed.
However, the midfielder only just reached the 10 SPL appearances required to receive a medal when he played in the following matches against Rangers, Hearts and Killie.
It may have lasted just 13 games, but there is little doubt Keane will be an idol for Celtic fans.
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