FORMER Ireland star Tony Cascarino feels Roy Keane has left behind a mixed legacy in the history of his country's football after the Reds captain announced his retirement from the international game.

Keane, 34, announced his second retirement from the international arena in the wake of the 0-0 draw with Switzerland which ended Ireland's chances of reaching next year's World Cup.

Cascarino credits the United midfielder with some inspirational performances for his country - notably in a 2-0 defeat of Holland on the way to the 2002 World Cup and the 0-0 draw with France in August.

But those performances were in qualifying matches and Cascarino acknowledges that the ugly row with Mick McCarthy, which saw Keane walk out on his country just days before the 2002 World Cup finals, will colour those memories.

Cascarino told Radio Five Live: "He'll be remembered for the performances against Holland at Lansdowne road, the France appearance this summer, when Roy Keane took them on on his own.

"But there's still a lot of people who can't understand why he left Saipan. How could any player leave a World Cup?"

Tempted

Keane, who won 66 caps, was tempted back into action following the appointment of Brian Kerr as McCarthy's successor and the midfielder feels the current boss has been harshly criticised for the team's failures.

Keane told RTE: "Like all football supporters in the country, I am disappointed that the Republic of Ireland failed to qualify for the World Cup finals, despite the efforts of Brian Kerr, his staff and the squad who made an endeavour to qualify.

"I believe recent criticism of Brian in the media is unjust and unfair.

"I would like to thank the players and staff for their efforts. Much as I would like to continue playing for my country, I feel the time has come to retire from international football and concentrate on domestic football for whatever is the remainder of my career.

"I would like to thank everyone for the support they have given me throughout my international career."

Keane made his international debut against Chile in 1991 and his final appearance came in defeat to France last month.

What will Keane's legacy be to Ireland? Have your say.

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