WHILE there is no doubt Roy Keane is putting Ipswich first the Cork man is delighted to be able to help out the financially stricken clubs back in his home country.

Derek Davis

By Derek Davis

WHILE there is no doubt Roy Keane is putting Ipswich first the Cork man is delighted to be able to help out the financially stricken clubs back in his home country.

The Blues' friendly matches this weekend are virtual sell outs at both Waterford United's RSC and Cork City's Turners' Cross grounds, bringing in vital revenue for the League of Ireland sides.

Cork City go to the High Court on July 27 in a bid to stave off Examinership, similar to administration in this country, which could eventually lead to the club being wound up - it is that serious for the club.

So while Keane is determined his side will benefit football-wise he is delighted that the opposition with also reap rewards.

He said: “The priority for me is to get something from the game and that is fitness and levels and for me a chance to look at some players.

“But it is nice for these clubs to make some money.

“Finn Harps will have made a few bob last week, it won't be fortunes but it is always nice to help these clubs along without a shadow of a doubt.

“I know Waterford and Cork and they are good football clubs that have had their troubles, just as many clubs in England have.

“It will be nice for them to make a few bob but looking at the bigger picture and we will go over their with the attitude to do well, put on a good show and a chance for the young lads, the new players and those here last year to make an impression.”

Keane is revered throughout Ireland but no more so than in his home town Cork where he was born and raised.

It was while playing for Cobh Ramblers that he was spotted by Nottingham Forests' Ron Fenton and given his big break by Brian Clough.

Success with Manchester United followed but Keane never lost touch with the folk back in Mayfield where his family still live but he will shove sentiment aside this weekend.

Keane said: “It is about going over there and being professional. There will be no carry on for me over there. I have been back many times as a player and now a manager so it is no big deal.

“My priority is to prepare properly, play Friday night do our recovery on Saturday and train in Cork on the Saturday then come home after the game on Sunday.

“It will all be done very professionally and we will do things properly, this will be no jolly up - trust me.”