Hatchet Buried

Last updated : 03 November 2006 By Greg Livermore
The talk represents the first time the pair has spoken since their infamous bustup at the 2002 World Cup. McCarthy was the coach of the Republic of Ireland in South Korea & Japan when Keane was sent home. At the time Keane made no secret of his disenchantment with aspects of McCarthy's performance as Irish boss.

McCarthy has told the Wolves website: "I wanted to inquire about a couple of players and I always believe that you should speak to the manager direct. We both felt it was the right time to talk and it was a cordial conversation. We chatted about the players and a couple of other things that will remain private. It's been four years and it should be put to bed. Life goes on. The only two people who weren't getting anything out of it were me and Roy. It's the media that drives it on and we've both got difficult enough jobs without others putting spanners in it. The circus might not come to town now (for the Sunderland game - Friday November 24).