Source: Daily_Mail
Roy Keane: Stars want money and a blonde, not to play for their country
Roy Keane has backed Wayne Bridge's decision to quit England and claimed: 'International football is no longer the pinnacle for players.'The former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain believes today's stars are more interested in perks than caps.Ipswich manager Keane said: 'The pinnacle now is getting the big contract, the Bentley and the blonde.' What's going on: Ipswich boss Roy Keane has lambasted modern day footballersKeane famously stormed out of the Republic of Ireland squad on the eve of the World Cup finals in the Far East eight years ago after a bust-up with boss Mick McCarthy.He admitted: 'I have some identity with players who aren't happy with the set-up.'The easiest thing would be to do what everyone is telling you to do and just sit there with your mouth shut.'They will say 'Keep your head down, say nothing and keep the peace'. Do I sound like a man of experience? Prime example: Manchester City star Stephen Ireland reinforces Keane's point 'But if you're not happy you're not going to perform to the best of your ability and ultimately you will let your team-mates down.'Keane recalled his own dramatic walk-out and insisted players have to be content with their surroundings in order to perform at their best.He went on: 'The most important thing for any footballer is what goes on between the ears and people tend to forget that.'Do you want to go away for six weeks with other players you are not comfortable with and who are maybe showing you a lack of respect? Been there, done that: Keane has backed Bridge's decision to say no to England'In my case it was the principle of working with people who questioned me and I said 'I'm not putting up with it' simple as that.'It chipped away at me. People say 'Go with the flow' but you know what goes with the flow? Dead fish. 'A player's mindset is sometimes more important than winning the World Cup. You might think that's crazy but if a player is not happy I would call it a brave decision to pull out.'Keane is adamant Bridge's withdrawal will not weaken Fabio Capello's chances oflifting the famous trophy in South Africa.He added: 'Let's not kid ourselves England are not short of left backs.' As he faces nemesis Terry for the first time. Chelsea backing Bridge!Wayne Bridge vs John Terry: All eyes focus on just two men as tawdry JT sex saga hits townGRAHAM POLL: Bridge vs Terry - Countdown to a handshake Explore more:People:Wayne Bridge, Fabio Capello, Mick McCarthy, Roy KeanePlaces:Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom, South Africa