Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Roy Keane's appointment as Republic of Ireland assistant coach.
Ferguson was scathing in his criticism of Keane in his recently released autobiography.
But on his book tour in Ireland, he remarked: "I think it's a terrific appointment for Roy. He hasn't had a good experience in management. [with Ipswich and Sunderland] but he's only young.
"He'll have the experience of Martin which he can lean on and learn from. He could get back into club management from this.
"Also there are 24 teams in the next European Championships so it's a great opportunity for Ireland to qualify.
"Martin O'Neill is a massive appointment. He has won league titles with Celtic, which his hard to do. He also brings massive experience and personality to the job."
