Irritated Keane Blasts FAI Hierarchy

The Sunderland manager was left shocked at the omissions of two of his star players from the latest ROI squad.

Liam Miller and David Connolly, who have been in fine form for Sunderland this season, were left out of the squad for what Keane calls, "political" reasons.

"There is no doubt a lot of politics are involved and it does irritate me.

"What's holding back Liam Miller is the fact that he's from Cork, without a doubt," he added.

"People think I'm crazy for saying that but I'm not. That would definitely go against him but you don't know the FAI as well as I do.

"Dave had a falling out with Don Givens a few years ago. Don's involved with the U21s and they all talk to each other.

"Dave has scored maybe eight in the last 10, 11 games.

"Are you telling me there are better players on better form than Connolly and Miller?

"I thought when the new manager came in some players would have a clean slate, but that's not the case."

Meanwhile, disciplined Sunderland striker Anthony Stokes - who originates from Dublin - did manage to be included in the 24-man squad.