Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic reveals long-standing admiration for Roy Keane

Manchester United new-boy Nemanja Matic has suggested he’s always been a key follower of the Red Devils after revealing he was a huge fan of Roy Keane growing up.

The Serbia international only joined United from Chelsea this summer, having surprisingly pushed for a move to the Blues’ rivals despite rumoured offers to move abroad from the likes of Juventus and Inter Milan.

Already a popular figure at Old Trafford, Matic has started well for his new club and looks right at home alongside Paul Pogba in midfield.

Matic is now preparing for a crucial international match for Serbia against the Republic of Ireland this evening, for whom United legend Roy Keane is assistant manager.

Speaking ahead of the game, Matic took the opportunity to heap praise on the former Reds captain, admitting that he’s always tried to base his game around the legendary figure.

‘I will be happy to see him (Keane) and have a chat with him,’ the 29-year-old said.

‘He is a legend of Manchester United and was a very important player for them for a long time.

‘When I was young, when I started playing football, he was at his best and was a great player, one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

‘I tried to take from every player something good to improve myself, and he was one. I am happy now that I play in the same club as he played.’

Matic was also a popular player in his time at Chelsea, with whom he won two Premier League titles, but Blues fans may not be best pleased to see he’s always harboured an affection for one of their biggest rivals.

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