Keane 'unease' over testimonial

Roy Keane yesterday confirmed that his testimonial game between Celtic and Manchester United should go ahead at Old Trafford on 9 May, but it is a prospect which leaves him uneasy.

"It's something I'm not 100 per cent comfortable with," said Keane. "It wasn't something I'd planned. Perhaps if I'd seen out my contract at United, but even after 12 and a half years it just doesn't sit comfortably with me.

"It will be nice to say goodbye to the [United] fans, but not necessarily going back and seeing the manager, the staff and the players because I'll see them over the years."

Despite pressure from his current and former club to stage the game, as well as his Celtic team-mates who want to play at Old Trafford, Keane is likely to deflect criticism by making sure the proceeds are well spent.

"There will be a charitable benefit - lots of people in Glasgow, Manchester, Cork and Dublin will benefit," he added.

"But I won't be turning it into a big publicity stunt. It will be a game and that's it. There won't be dinners and golf days because some people go over the score on that.

"I don't like the attention side of it. I've played in testimonials for players who deserved it and they were great. I've played for United against Celtic before and it's been a good occasion but for me, hopefully it'll be all right on the night.

"I know there have been players criticised over the years, but if United or Celtic fans want to go to the game then well and good. If they don't, then don't bother."

Referring to his November departure from Old Trafford, Keane said: "I'm not uncomfortable about the way I left. That was very straightforward with me and the manager. We had both come to the end. It's like when you are in a relationship with a girl and you just know when it is at the end. And that's what it was, it was over."

l The funeral of the Celtic legend Jimmy Johnstone, who died of motor neurone disease on Monday morning, will be held on Friday. The service will take place at St John the Baptist Church, Uddingston at 10am. The funeral cortège will travel to Celtic Park to allow supporters to pay their respects after the service.