Ireland's Euro 2016 opponents have player singled out by Roy Keane as "something special"

Unequivocal praise from Roy Keane is as rare as hen's teeth so when he does have something nice to say about someone, it's most definitely newsworthy.

The Republic of Ireland assistant manager has revealed, though, that he is a massive fan of Manchester City playmaker Kevin de Bruyne. De Bruyne has only just recovered from a long-term injury but he's already stamped his authority by netting three in four since his return, guaranteeing City a place in the semi-finals of the Champions League in the process. GettyImages-520686934

And Keane, who will be looking to figure out a way to stop de Bruyne when Ireland face off against Belgium on 18 June, has revealed that he's been blown away by the 24-year-old this season.

"De Bruyne is City's form player and he effects big games," Keane said on ITV on Wednesday. "His goal last night, that's not even half a chance. Roy Keane 22/3/2016

"Sometimes you don't appreciate a player until he is missing.

"That is what City have found this year with him. The boy is something special, he affects games. The goals he has scored, the assists, his movement. Top, top player." Hopefully Keano has spotted a way to stifle the Belgian danger-man come the summer.

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Ireland’s Euro 2016 opponents have player singled out by Roy Keane as “something special”

Home sport

Unequivocal praise from Roy Keane is as rare as hen's teeth so when he does have something nice to say about someone, it's most definitely newsworthy.

Unequivocal praise from Roy Keane is as rare as hen's teeth so when he does have something nice to say about someone, it's most definitely newsworthy.

Ireland’s Euro 2016 opponents have player singled out by Roy Keane as “something special”

Home›sport

Unequivocal praise from Roy Keane is as rare as hen's teeth so when he does have something nice to say about someone, it's most definitely newsworthy.

Unequivocal praise from Roy Keane is as rare as hen's teeth so when he does have something nice to say about someone, it's most definitely newsworthy.

Home sport