ROY Keane has revealed his career highlight on the ‘Stick to Football’ podcast.
Man Utd icon Keane was speaking on the show alongside Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Ian Wright and their guest Martin O’Neill.
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Former Ireland manager O’Neill appointed Keane as his assistant during his time in charge of the boys in green from 2013 and 2018.
And to the surprise of many, the former Utd skipper revealed that he loved his time working with Martin O’Neill.
The ex-Ireland captain claimed seven Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Intercontinental Cup, and four FA Cups during his time at Manchester United, later leading Sunderland to Premier League promotion in his debut managerial role.
But he says his time as Ireland assistant was some of the best times of his life.
Ireland qualified for EURO 2016 under the duo, but missed out on the World Cup a couple of years later.
Ireland went on to beat Italy in the tournament before qualifying for the last-16, but they were ultimately beaten by hosts France in Lyon.
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Keano said: “I go back throughout my career and my experience with Martin.
“Particularly going to the Euros, was probably the highlight of my career.
“It sounds bizarre because we always talk about playing – and I loved playing – but our time with Ireland was probably the highlight.
“I just loved everything about it, the dynamics, the energy of the group, working with Martin and the other staff members.
“There was something going on there and there was a feel-good factor.
“The lads were decent. We probably did lack an out-and-out goalscorer, a bit of quality, all of those things.
“But we got to the Euros, we got to the [World Cup] play-offs. It was one of the best times of my life.”
Nottingham Forest legend O’Neill was left flabbergasted by Keane’s admission after all the medals he won throughout his lengthy career.
The 72-year-old was delighted but shocked by the Corkman’s words.
He added: “It’s extraordinary for you to say that.
“Considering the medals you’ve won in your career, to say that is the highlight – genuinely, that’s really lovely to hear.”
Keane elaborated, noting that alongside the pride of managing his country and their achievements.
Roy added: “I think I was able to take it in a bit more.
“As a player, you’re in the zone, under pressure. But during those couple of weeks in France, I could step back a little and really enjoy it.
“Of course, we were there to get results and progress from the group, but that game against Italy was just fantastic.”