Former Manchester United and Ireland captain Roy Keane has revealed that the journalist responsible for the memorable phone incident during one of his press conferences has recently offered an apology.
Speaking on The Overlap, Keane recalled the moment when a reporter’s phone rang mid-interview, prompting him to abruptly end the session. The clip, which went viral, became one of the most replayed scenes in football media coverage.
“He actually said sorry to me not long ago,” Keane said, reflecting on the incident with a slight smile. “It was funny at the time, but a bit of a distraction too.”
The incident occurred during Keane’s tenure as Sunderland manager in the late 2000s. While addressing the media, his sharp reaction to the ringing phone displayed the no-nonsense attitude that defined his career both as a player and a coach.
Keane has since become a popular pundit, often known for his candid, fiery commentary on Sky Sports and ITV.
Keane explained that the journalist approached him years later to express regret over the interruption. The apology, according to Keane, was genuine, and he accepted it in good humor, signaling that any tension from the moment had long passed.
“We had a laugh about it in the end,” he added. “These things happen.”
Though humorous in hindsight, the incident continues to symbolize Keane’s demand for professionalism and focus—traits that made him both feared and respected in football circles.
“People still talk about it, which tells you how ridiculous it’s all become,” Keane concluded.
Author’s summary: Roy Keane shared that the journalist behind the iconic phone incident from his Sunderland press conference recently apologized, showing how time can soften even viral outbursts.