Roy Keane would have returned to Manchester United as assistant manager had the club appointed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer instead of Michael Carrick at the start of this year. Carrick was competing with Solskjaer for the vacancy created by Ruben Amorim's exit in January, and it was Carrick who received the appointment, but Solskjaer would have attempted to recruit Keane as his number two, according to The Sun.
Close bond between Solskjaer and Keane
During his earlier tenure in charge of United, Solskjaer had Mike Phelan as his assistant, but he maintained a close relationship with Keane and has spoken publicly about his respect for him. He previously said: "I keep in touch with Roy and have been at his house for a cup of tea. I always listen to Roy and his opinions. I value them very highly. I know Roy did an interview saying there are many people that claim to be his friends."
Keane has managed Sunderland and Ipswich, and has also served as a deputy, working alongside Martin O'Neill at Ireland and Nottingham Forest and with Paul Lambert at Aston Villa.
Keane's United history and Carrick's appointment
The Irishman claimed seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League during a 12-year period at Old Trafford, but experienced a notorious departure in late 2005 after falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson. Keane has previously suggested that the Scot's continued involvement at the club might hinder any potential return.
Carrick eventually secured the position to manage United last term, and his impressive caretaker stint earned him the role permanently, retaining former England coach Steve Holland as his chief assistant. Keane had voiced disapproval of Carrick's appointment when it was initially announced.
Previous criticism of Carrick
Keane remarked on the Stick To Football podcast: "His wife can always come in [if Carrick doesn't do well], cause she's got a bit of a big mouth sometimes. She's probably doing the team talk." That comment originated from a dispute in 2014, when Keane lambasted Carrick's display in a Champions League loss to Olympiacos. Carrick's wife Lisa Roughhead posted on Twitter: "Roy Keane what a ****, says anything to provoke a reaction." She subsequently removed the tweet and published an apology.
