ROY KEANE has revealed there is tension between the BBC and ITV pundits during major tournaments.
But the former captain insists the rivalry is healthy and believes a bit of competition between the broadcasters is a good thing.
Roy Keane admits there is “definitely tension” between BBC and ITV pundits ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
Keane and Richards have spent many a Sunday together in front of the Sky Sports cameras Credit: Getty
Keane, 54, was speaking alongside long-time pal Micah Richards in their new Road To The World Cup mini-series ahead of the 2026 tournament, which gets underway on Thursday.
The former Republic of Ireland international admitted there is a noticeable divide between the two camps whenever football’s biggest competitions roll around.
Keane said: “The rivalry between the and pundits is a bit strange, but I think it’s good that there’s a bit of tension.
“I think you need a bit of competition.
“BBC might have the younger pundits, but they’re two completely different shows.”
The BBC and ITV will once again share broadcasting duties throughout the World Cup, with both channels splitting the tournament’s 104 matches.
Keane is expected to feature prominently throughout the competition and admits he cannot wait to get out to the United States.
He said: “I’m looking forward to the World Cup. I see it as a little treat for me to be out in the USA and I’m going to embrace it.
“I want to embrace being in . I’ve been there before, but just settling down, having five-and-a-half weeks and trying to find some nice restaurants in Brooklyn.
“And if I did have one or two days off, I might go on a little trip to Boston and just embrace being out there.”
Keane also opened up on his approach to punditry.
He said: “When it comes to punditry, it’s a bit like when I was a player.
“I always remember saying that I needed to control the ball, pass it and move, and I’d have the basic things to go back to, and I try to do the same with punditry.
“I turn up on time, be respectful to the people I’m working with – the other pundits and the people in the background.
“I give my opinion on something, and whether it’s right or wrong, it doesn’t matter.
“As I’m an ex-player and an ex-manager, I think my opinion carries a little bit of weight. Not that people have to agree with me.”
United legend opened up on the rivalry between broadcasting giants while speaking to Richards
Away from , Keane revealed he is happiest when wandering around a new city with no particular destination in mind.
He added: “I love going to the cinema. From when I was a child, I always loved going to the cinema as we only went once or twice a year, so it was seen as a big treat for me.
“So now, when I go out, it’s still a treat. I get myself a nice drink, sit in the comfy seat, and I take my shoes off.
“And that’s why I think I’m looking forward to the World Cup as well. I like getting lost.
“You wouldn’t want to go away with me because I don’t want a map. I like getting lost and just walking for hours.
“We’ll always end up finding somewhere for a coffee on our walks and I’ll do the same in America.”
And while another World Cup adventure awaits, Keane still holds a special place in his heart for the first tournament that truly captured his imagination.
He said: “The 1982 World Cup was my favourite back in my younger days.
Keane and Richards are planning to spend a lot of time together on the road to America
“I was watching the games on TV, I would have been 11-years-old, and in the evening – in between matches – we’d go out and play football.
“I remember the coloured TV, the characters on the pitch, and watching . Them getting knocked out was heartbreaking.
“Then you’d be watching and hope they get beaten, but there was always interest.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
