5 Reasons Why The O'Neill/Keane Dream Ticket Has Its Risks For Ireland
3. Keane's Past May Undermine His Authority
Eleven years on, and Keane will be attempting to exert some authority of his own over a squad that still contains Richard Dunne and Robbie Keane from the group that he left in the lurch all those years ago. Dont be surprised to see this pair announce their retirement sooner rather than later, being aged 34 and 33 respectively.
The pair are undoubtedly professionals of the highest order, and will not publicly reveal any existing dissent towards their assistant manager, but other younger members of the squad may not be too thrilled at the appointment. If nothing else, Roy Keane is a man who inspires strong feelings one way or another.
Martin O'Neill is a manager who will undoubtedly have thought this through, and should he run into any disciplinary problems with his squad, there may be some matters best dealt with himself. Having said that, I'm sure Keane will feel no qualms about laying into anyone he feels is not giving 100% to the Ireland cause, although he should expect an occasional brave riposte.