Picture Credit: Twitter
As the Manchester Derby was played last Sunday, the talks around Roy Keane’s horrible tackle to Alf-Inge Haaland in 2001 resurfaced and both the individual involved were asked about it. Keane was asked if he regrets doing that to Haaland and the former Man United player said a big no. Meanwhile, Junior Haaland was also asked about it who did not bother talking much about it and gave a rather plain answer.
Coming back to Keane’s response, the 51-year-old bluntly denied having any regrets as he wrote in his autobiography: "There are things I regret in my life and he’s [Haaland] not one of them." Meanwhile, the incident no longer appears to weigh heavily on Alf-Inge, who previously made it clear that he believes Keane's horrific tackle ended his playing career.
When he was asked about Keane’s response in the past, Haaland senior dismissed the question and instead took aim at the Irishman's bushy beard. He retorted that he 'couldn't take Keane seriously'.
As anticipated, Erling was also asked about it and the Norwegian adopted a similar approach to his father. The City striker was reluctant to speak on the tackle and insisted: "I haven't spoken to my father about this game, but I know he will be in the stands watching. It means so much to all of the supporters - and as a fan I know that. We want to make them proud on Sunday."
"We know it is going to be a tough game, but I am excited to play in this derby. It's another game, but I also know that derby games are so much more intense. These games mean everything to the fans. It is the first time I have played in the Manchester derby after watching so many on TV with my father and I cannot wait. It will be a special moment for me."
Nevertheless, none of it matters as Haaland put in a perfect performance at Premier League’s one of the most anticipated fixtures. The Norwegian netted a hattrick and helped Man City crush the Red Devils 6-3.