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Roy Keane pays tribute to former team-mate Liam Miller

Keane was joined by Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes in a match to honour Miller, who died of cancer in February

Roy Keane paid tribute to Liam Miller before playing for Manchester United Legends
Image: Roy Keane paid tribute to Liam Miller before playing for Manchester United Legends

Manchester United legend Roy Keane paid tribute to "cheeky and playful" Liam Miller as former team-mates took part in a tribute match in the player's hometown of Cork.

Former United, Celtic and Republic of Ireland midfielder Miller passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer in February at the age of 36.

Keane rolled back the years alongside Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand in the benefit match held at the recently redeveloped Pairc Ui Chaoimh.

A crowd of 43,000 witnessed a Manchester United Legends team beat a Celtic/Ireland side 3-2 on penalties, with Keane one of the players missing from the spot.

Ahead of the clash, Keane spoke affectionately about Miller in a special matchday programme, writing: "Having played with and managed Liam Miller, I am glad that I did.

"OK, we all know about Liam's timekeeping (or lack of) and that would drive me crazy at times, but he always had that cheeky smile and playful side of his personality that made you let him away with another 'one last chance'.

A tribute screen displaying photographs of Liam Miller above the stands during his Tribute Match.
Image: A tribute screen displaying photographs of Liam Miller above the stands during his tribute match

"Since Liam's passing there has been a lot of coverage in the media, but what has been fantastic to see is the public reaction to get behind this game.

"It's a credit to everyone who bought a ticket for today's game to support Liam's family and pay tribute to him today."

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