Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has given Roy Keane his full backing in his decision to return to the international fold. Ferguson told Sky television: "I'm pleased for Roy. He's made a good decision for all parties concerned. I think it is a good decision for them.Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has given Roy Keane his full backing in his decision to return to the international fold. Ferguson told Sky television: "I'm pleased for Roy. He's made a good decision for all parties concerned. I think it is a good decision for them."
"There has been some dialogue between Brian and Roy in the last couple of weeks, and they have come to the feeling this was a good time to go back in order to qualify for the next World Cup."
Ferguson is not concerned that Keane might no longer be a 100 per cent United player. "In this case I would say it is a very good decision for Roy - and I support it 100 per cent," the Scot added.
Ray Houghton believes Ireland need Keane back and missed him during their attempt to qualify for Euro 2004. The former Ireland midfielder said: "I think the timing is strange, there are no World Cup qualifiers until September. But after watching them recently against Brazil and the Czech Republic he's maybe seen it's the thing he's been missing.
"Maybe he's let them down in the past and has something to prove. He's got considerable experience and they've been missing that.
"The players have got to be big enough to understand the decision and got to put dislikes behind them. He's doing it for the good of the country," he added.
"Players always feel let down when someone else comes in for big games, but he is a winner and I'm sure the other players will adhere to that.
"I think Brian Kerr intimated he would like him back. It is a major coup for him. I think once Roy gets back people will forget about that and want to qualify for the World Cup."
Kevin Moran believes the return of Keane has significantly increased the Republic's chances of qualifying for the 2006 World Cup. Moran, who won 71 caps, told Sky: "If he comes back, it can only augur well for Ireland.
"The World Cup is coming up and Roy Keane in the set-up gives Ireland a better chance for the qualifiers. I think Roy Keane making himself available is good news for Brian Kerr."
Frank Stapleton believes the fans remain divided but ultimately people will realise the value of the player's return.
Stapleton said: "I think the fans will be as split as they were when Mick McCarthy lost his job. But a bit of time has gone and the fact they have not qualified for Euro 2004 will remind people. It is a boost for Irish football, forget what happened in the past."
Derby defender Jeff Kenna, who won the last of his 27 Ireland caps four years ago, is also pleased to see Keane back.
"I'm surprised, but from a fans' point of view, it is fantastic news," he said. "I am sure Brian will have spoken to the older players in the squad and if he felt it would be detrimental he would not come back. As far as I'm concerned it is great news."
