Former Roy Keane has sparked laughter after joking that he would leave the United Kingdom and move to Australia if England national football team win the World Cup this summer.
The outspoken Irish pundit made the remark while discussing England’s chances ahead of the tournament in North America, where he is expected to work as a television analyst.
Keane admitted that he often becomes increasingly tense whenever England progress deep into major competitions, despite his professional role requiring him to remain neutral.
Speaking during a Sky Bet preview programme, he said he struggles to stay relaxed once England reach the knockout stages.
“I don’t want England winning it,” Keane said. “But obviously when we’re working over there, you’re ITV, you want them to do well. And when they start going through the rounds, there’s a bit of excitement.”
He added that his anxiety builds as tournaments reach the decisive stages, joking: “That’s when I start getting worried—semis and finals. ‘Please, stop now! Get them out!’”
His comments drew laughter in the studio, with fellow pundit Micah Richards asking whether an England World Cup victory would bring him any joy.
Keane responded bluntly: “No, I’d be emigrating to Australia.”
England, coached by Thomas Tuchel, are hoping to end their long wait for a major international trophy at the World Cup. Keane’s tongue-in-cheek remark has added humour to the build-up, even as anticipation grows for the tournament.
