After a “nightmare” début, Roy Keane discloses how Tommy Burns altered his perspective on Celtic. The Celtic debut of Roy Keane resulted in one of the most humiliating losses in the club’s history.
After departing Manchester United to join Celtic, Keane was assigned what appeared to be a straightforward Scottish Cup match against Clyde. Gordon Strachan’s team was anticipated to be a breeze, but the script was not adhered to, and Clyde emerged victorious with a score of 2-1.
It was a genuine wake-up call for Keane, who was rightfully furious, only to be brought back to Earth by Celtic legend Tommy Burns. Roy Keane reflected on the aftermath of Celtic’s humiliating loss to Clyde. Keane disclosed in his autobiography that he was enraged by his colleague John Hartson and that the Celtic supporters responded in a hostile manner upon their return to Parkhead.
“It was a nightmare.” I was not satisfied with the quality of my own game. The Cork native stated, “I performed satisfactorily; however, it was inadequate.” “The disappointment that ensued subsequent to the game.” John Hartson, a genuinely kind individual, was already seated on the bus, munching on a packet of crisps while sipping on a carbonated beverage. I muttered to myself, “Welcome to Hell.” “We returned to Celtic Park by bus.”
As we disembarked from the bus, a significant number of supporters were awaiting us, and they were directing their frustrations toward Gordon and certain players.
Tommy Burns served as the mediator between Celtic’s players and supporters. Burns, the individual in question, was the most likely candidate to alleviate the situation. Keane disclosed how Burns was able to regain the support of the supporters amid a heated exchange between Strachan and the fans.
Keane recollected the conversation, stating, “Tommy Burns – and I take my hat off to him – stood on the steps and had a go at some of the Celtic fans.” Some of the young men were prepared for some action. He stated, “You are not Celtic supporters.” It is imperative that you support the team. I recall thinking, “This is a promising beginning.”
During my inaugural game, the fans were incensed, and a member of the staff was compelled to defend the manager on the steps of Celtic Park. Therefore, that was a pleasant and mild introduction. Although the Ireland international achieved a league and cup double, he was plagued by injuries and departed after a single season before retiring.
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