New Roy Keane movie about epic World Cup bust-up in Saipan with Mick McCarthy set to feature Steve Coogan and Eanna Hardwicke

The Republic of Ireland camp was thrown into chaos during the FIFA showpiece in Japan and South Korea. Keane was, as captain of his country and Premier League giants Manchester United, still a talismanic presence at the peak of his powers.

The combative midfielder was, however, always famed for his relentless pursuit of perfection – with the same standards demanded of those around him. He was involved in a training ground dispute with manager McCarthy, with questions being asked of conditions, strategy, travel arrangements and coaching.

Keane also conducted an interview in which he criticised his boss, leading to a final falling out that resulted in the United star telling McCarthy and Co to “stick your World Cup up your arse!”. He subsequently left the Ireland squad and returned home.

The story of the now infamous “Saipan Incident” is set to be told on screen, with Variety claiming that two-time Oscar nominee Coogan is lined up to play the role of McCarthy. Eanna Hardwicke will channel his inner Keane, with the film to be directed by Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa as shooting starts this summer.