It’s a special match for a special person

Keane kicks off tribute to tragic Celt Miller, 36

ROY Keane has described a Liam Miller tribute match as a “great” way to remember the soccer star who died of cancer.

The game will take place later this year for the family of the former Ireland player who passed away in February just days before his 37th birthday.

Legends such as Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes, Robbie Keane, Damien Duff and Denis Irwin will battle it out as a Man United side take on a Celtic/ireland team.

Paying tribute to the dad of three, Keane said: “I always had a lot of time and respect for Liam. “Unfortunately with sport we all get obsessed with winning and losing contracts but the bottom line is your health is the most important thing.”

The Man United legend was speaking at Cork City Hall where pictures of home town hero Miller are on display.

He said: “It will be a chance to celebrate his career. It will be a great occasion. It gives people a chance to pay their respects.”

Keane is looking forward to managing the Man United side against his boss Martin O’neill who will be in charge of the Celtic/ Ireland team at Turner’s Cross in Cork on September 25.

He added: “Players pride kicks in when we get together. Martin will want to beat me and I will want to beat Martin.”

Keane was joined at the launch by Lord Mayor Mick Finn, Cork City manager John Caulfield and developer Michael O’flynn.

Mr O’flynn said he remembered Liam playing underage football, adding: “He connected to people in a special way. When I spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson about this before he became ill he was enthusiastic about being involved.”

The game will be followed by a Black Tie Gala Dinner and panel discussion at City Hall with tables for 12 priced at €4,000 already sold out.

Match tickets costing €50 will go on sale at Ticketmaster.ie at 10am tomorrow.