Keane has no interest in FA Cup

The Irishman, who last week caused a stir by claiming that he deliberately tried to injure Alf Inge Haaland, has insisted that the competition has lost its appeal, with The Premiership and Champions League of greater importance.

The Red Devils withdrew from the competition two seasons ago, but Keane feels the competition was wilting before their controversial decision.

Writing in his autobiography, serialised in the News of the World, Keane said of the decision to withdraw: "The competition has lost its relevance, certainly for me. The Premiership and the Champions League were the only trophies we were concerned about.

"Sure it was a day out for our families and everyone who worked hard behind the scenes at our club. But the Wembley myth, the folklore attached to the walk out of the tunnel, the red carpet, meeting the big shots, going up to the Royal Box to receive your medal - a pat on the back from the great and the good - all of it was b******t.

"Of course, you couldn't say that."

He added: "Tradition dies slowly in the game and with the news that the holders were not defending their crown, all hell broke loose.

"We all put on out sick as a parrot faces, expressing regret, but privately, I didn't care.

"There`s no doubt in an era when The Premiership and Champions Cup have become the competitions to win, the FA Cup is nothing more than a consolation prize, an afterthought."

Keane`s comments are sure to cause more controversy, particularly from a man who prides himself on being such a fearsome competitor.

The midfield titan simply hates to lose, making his comments that 'the FA Cup is now a day out' somewhat alarming.

Continuing his controversial theme, Keane has backed Eric Cantona for the kung-fu incident at Selhurst Park, claiming he may have done the same thing.

Cantona served a lengthy ban for attacking a spectator, but Keane feels he was severely provoked.

Keane said: "The incident between Eric Cantona and a fan at Selhurst Park in 1995 was serious for the club. But I'll tell you my immediate reaction: So what?

"Fair play to Eric. I might have done the same myself.

"Of course, when I got home and saw the television pictures I could see it was a nasty incident.

"Out of order, too. But my attitude didn't change.

"My heart went out to him and all the lads felt the same. We didn't pat him on the back and say 'well done' - but Eric was a good lad and we weren't going to turn on him now."