The Republic of Ireland captain walked out on his country just days before the start of the 2002 World Cup. In an uncharacteristic tirade of abuse launched at Mick McCarthy this time, Keano said to his manager, "Mick, you're a liar... you're a f***ing w****r. I didn't rate you as a player, I don't rate you as a manager, and I don't rate you as a person. You're a f***ing w****r and you can stick your World Cup up your arse. The only reason I have any dealings with you is that somehow you are the manager of my country! You can stick it up your bollocks."