Keano to go back to his roots

The 32-year-old Irish international has confirmed that he will play in United's pre-season friendly against Cobh at Turners Cross in Cork on July 17.

Although it is intended the FA Cup winners will field a largely second string side, with the majority of first-team stars not due to return to action until the first game of the Red Devils' USA tour against Bayern Munich on July 25, Keane is thought to have requested clearance to play against his former club.

The midfielder joined Cobh on a trainee scheme and spent 12 months with the League of Ireland outfit until he was snapped up by Nottingham Forest for £47,000 in 1990.

Keane has always acknowledged his debt of gratitude to Cobh and his presence has ensured a capacity crowd for the game, with all tickets now sold.

Keane's Irish teammate John O'Shea looks likely to miss the game with a knee problem but United's new Irish star Liam Milller, also from Cork, may make his bow for Manchester United in his home town.