Early Life and Education of Roy Keane: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 21, 2025

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Roy Keane. A timeline of key moments.

Roy Keane is a celebrated Irish football pundit, former coach, and player, renowned for his impactful career in the Premier League, most notably as captain of Manchester United. He is among the most decorated Irish footballers, securing 19 major trophies, with 17 earned during his time at Manchester United. Keane is widely considered one of history's best defensive midfielders and Premier League players, recognized by Pelé in the FIFA 100 list.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

August 1971: Roy Keane's Birth

In August 1971, Roy Maurice Keane was born in Cork's Mayfield suburb.

Others born on this day/year

1997: Marriage to Theresa Doyle

In 1997, Roy Keane married Theresa Doyle.

2002: Release of autobiography

In 2002, Roy Keane released his first autobiography, ghostwritten by Eamon Dunphy.

May 2006: Testimonial Match at Old Trafford

On May 9, 2006, Roy Keane's testimonial match took place at Old Trafford between Manchester United and Celtic, with United winning 1–0. Keane played the first half for Celtic and the second half for Manchester United, and the proceeds were donated to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

2006: Keane moved house to Sunderland and reunited with Triggs

In 2006, Roy Keane moved house to Sunderland, and his reunion with his dog Triggs, who joined him later, was noticed by the press.

June 2009: Purchase of house in Ipswich area

In June 2009, Roy Keane and his family announced they would purchase a house in the Ipswich area, settling in Woodbridge.

2009: Triggs appeared in an Irish Guide Dogs advertisement

In 2009, Triggs, Roy Keane's dog, appeared in an Irish Guide Dogs advertisement, with the Irish Examiner referring to her as "football's biggest canine celebrity".

September 2010: Erroneous reports of Triggs' death

In September 2010, there were erroneous reports of Triggs' death from cancer, leading to her being described as a "celebrity" and a "household name", and Keane was reported to be "inconsolable".

2012: Death of Labrador Retriever Triggs

In 2012, Roy Keane's Labrador Retriever, Triggs, died, affecting him deeply. He mentioned the loss during a visit to the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.