Kerr blasts Keane u-turn
Kerr, who takes charge of his first game in charge of the Republic in tomorrow's clash with Scotland, insisted he respected Keane's decision, but claims that the midfielder has performed a u-turn following a meeting between the two last week.
Kerr said that he held extended talks with the 31-year-old last Thursday during which Keane committed himself to returning to the Republic squad.
"I had a meeting with Roy Keane last Thursday for three hours, and the meeting went very, very well. I left the meeting very happy," declared the 49-year-old.
"Roy gave me an unequivocal commitment he would be back to play in the team and that he would come to Scotland."
"However, he (Keane) met Alex Ferguson and the medical people at Manchester United.
"He (Keane) called me on Friday and said he had to rethink his decision (to return to the Ireland squad)."
After Keane's official announcement on Tuesday, Kerr declared he would now concentrate himself solely on the players who were available for selection.
"I accepted his (Keane's) decision and wish him the best of luck," said the Irish chief.
"I made no commitment to the FAI that Roy would return.
"They (FAI) did not make any demands that certain players would be in the team.
"I have 40 players who want to play for Ireland and I will now move on with the players who want to play for Ireland."
The former Ireland youth team coach also fired a broadside at Manchester United counterpart Ferguson for letting news of Keane's decision reach the media.
"I had agreed with (Sir) Alex Ferguson earlier today (Tuesday) that there would be no statement on the matter until after the (Scotland) game, until Thursday.
"It broke while I was on the training pitch so I'm a little disappointed obviously."
