Okay, Roy Keane has not directly commented on the Bodø/Glimt players, nor are we inside the head (fortunately) of the grumpy Keane. But if we combine the legendary Manchester United captain’s statement after the deplorable Manchester derby earlier this month and UEFA’s statistics in the Europa League, then we allow ourselves to say that Roy “all in” Keane loves the Bodø/Glimt players.
First, to the Manchester United players’ efforts against City at Old Trafford, April 6, seen from Keane’s perspective. The United legend has previously criticised the mentality and sacrifice of overpaid United players, after the dismal performance against City, sparks literally crackled out of Keane’s ears. He felt compelled to point to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to show how a United player should behave every time he is given the honour of putting on the red shirt.
READ: Now comes the much-needed change at Solskjaer
“They have to show more courage. I don’t think they do enough to win football matches. They have to be ready to sacrifice more, which I don’t see right now. Find a way to win. They have a responsibility when they play for Manchester United,” Keane told Sky Sports after the Manchester derby
Then it comes:.
“I can’t see any improvement. What happens at the training facility? Take Garnacho as an example. Look at Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, when he ran 60-70 yards home to tackle a player (against Newcastle in 1998). He was sent off, but sacrificed himself for the team. They don’t now,” Keane concluded.
In the second leg against Lyon this week, Keane got to see what happens when Manchester United players “do what Solskjaer does”.
Then over to Bodø/Glimt. UEFA has published the statistics behind the advancement of the semi-final clubs. When you take a look at the statistics, which show the willingness to sacrifice and work capacity the Bodø/Glimt players have shown in the Europa League arena compared to opponents Tottenham, then you realize that Kjetil Knutsen’s Bodø/Glimt players put in the extra kilometers during the match. Completely according to Roy Keane’s demands.
Here comes the difference in work capacity and willingness to sacrifice in the match arena through Europa League matches.
First to Tottenham, check the average number in the bottom right:
So to Kjetil Knutsen’s yellow football horde, check the average number in the bottom right:
