Roy Keane makes 'embarrassing' admission when asked why he can no longer play in testimonial games

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane previously revealed why he does not take part in testimonial matches.

Keane, 54, won 17 major trophies - seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups, one UEFA Champions League, one Intercontinental Cup, and four FA Community Shields - during his 12-year stay at Manchester United and is widely regarded as one of the Red Devils’ greatest ever midfielders and captains.

These days, the Irishman is regularly spotted working in the media for Sky Sports during Premier League matches and ITV Sport for FA Cup and international fixtures.

But despite calls from fans, he does not participate in testimonial, legends, or exhibition fixtures, which clubs usually organise to take place during the off-season or international breaks.

Roy Keane in 2004 (Credit:Getty)

Keane’s own testimonial was held on May 9, 2006. On that occasion, nearly 70,000 fans watched on at Old Trafford as United beat Celtic 1-0.

Several huge names, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, all featured.

But Keane has previously stated why he does not take part in similar events.

Speaking to Off The Ball in 2022, Keane explained: "I'm not fit. I'm far from fit. My fitness levels are actually very, very embarrassing.

"Just because I've not put on loads of weight doesn't mean to say I'm fit. I wouldn't really be able to do any running.

Roy Keane gave his thoughts (Credit:Getty)

“Put it this way, I've been invited a number of times over the last few years to play legends games or whatever you want to call it.

"I'd find it really difficult because I wouldn't be able to get around. Too many injury problems.

"I try to have a decent diet, and I'm obviously wary about putting on too much weight.

"But I certainly wouldn't be fit enough to go on any sort of run. I do a small bit of cycling, but even that - I'm not exactly Sean Kelly."

And despite seemingly not boasting great fitness for football, Keane still cuts a slender figure as he did during his playing days. He often talks about how he walks miles with his dog near his Hale home.