"That's not sad news, it's good news" - Manchester United legend Roy Keane offers opinion on Andy Murray's imminent retirement
Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane gave a typical reaction to the news of Andy Murray's retirement from professional tennis. The Briton was one of the best players of his generation, contending with all-time greats of the sport like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Raphael Nadal.
At the height of his abilities in 2016, he was ranked the best player by the ATP for 41 weeks and claimed Olympic gold twice, alongside three Grand Slams in an illustrious career. Injuries sadly saw him miss many games, playing a part in reducing his impact on the sport.
Speaking on Stick to Football, the unflappable former Manchester United captain was not soft-spoken when told of the Scotsman's retirement, saying:
"He’s 37-years-old, had a brilliant career but had plenty of injuries, so he should count his blessings that he’s had such a successful career. He must have been crying… although it’s okay to cry. That’s not sad news. It’s good news. He’s got a lovely family. Good luck to him.
"He had a brilliant career. They talk about him playing in a great era… we were up against the great Barcelona. He could have been with Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe!"
The former Manchester United captain's co-host, Ian Wright also shared his opinion, saying:
"Andy Murray is one of our sporting greats for what he had to go through. For him to make it in tennis, in our country, and in the same era as Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, you’ve got to give him major credit. He had a brilliant career and he’s one of our all-time greats.I don’t need to be a tennis fan to understand and appreciate how good someone is.
"With the injuries he’s had, it’s great to see how successful he’s been, especially to make it through in such a strong era of tennis."
The tennis star will be fondly remembered and is an inspiration to many young people looking to pursue a career in sports.
Olympique Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi vows to defend Manchester United outcast Mason Greenwood
Manchester United outcast Mason Greenwood has been linked with a move to Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille. Despite murmurs of disapproval due to his off-field issues, the forward might have a protector at the club if he joins.
Former Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi, who recently took charge at the Ligue 1 side, has spoken about his desire to sign and work with the player publicly, saying (Via Fotmob):
"Mason is a world-class player but we have not recruited him yet. I don't know what happened but I am not used to get involved in my players' private life. But if he comes here, you have to know that I treat all my players like my sons. I can tell them off in private but I would never attack them in public."
The comments from the Italian will be good news to Manchester United who have been keen to move forward since his off-field issues came to light. He returned to the club this summer after a fine loan spell in La Liga with Getafe that saw him score 10 goals.