There's Only One Keano

I woke up early this morning to watch Roy Keane's testimonial match. More than 69,000 United and Celtic fans turned up to honour one of the greatest midfielders the world has ever seen. Chants of "There's only one Keano" and "Keano, Keano" reverberated around Old Trafford for the whole 90 minutes. Although he wasn't the as talented as players like Cantona or Giggs, his obsession with winning and the demand he puts on others made him the most influential player in the dressing room and one of United greatest ever captains. Sir Alex describes him as the best player that he's ever had at United.

Keane's passion, drive and never-say-die attitude embodies everything that United are. The match against Juventus in the semi final second leg in 1999 is widely regarded as his best ever match in a red shirt. Even after he was yellow carded and knew he would miss the final, he kept his head high and inspired United to victory with a goal and a captain's performance. Lesser players would surely succumb to the heartache of missing the Champions League final, but not Keane. He has always put the team above himself because to Keane, his duty is to the team and the club.

Roy Keane in the familiar red 16 jersey walking out onto
Old Trafford for the last time.

Yesterday was the last time Old Trafford will see Roy Keane in the red shirt with the captain's armband strapped onto his arm. I am fortunate to witness Keane in his prime at United. I feel sorry for the future United fans who wouldn't be able to see first hand how great a player he is. The next player who puts on the red number 16 jersey has a very huge shirt to fill because to the United fans, that jersey belongs to only one man and his name is Roy Keane.

So, thanks Roy for all the memories and trophies that you've given us in your 12 very successful years as a Manchester United player.