Did Roy Keane really shave off his beard in aid of a former team-mate?

ROY KEANE is renowned for many things, but of late it’s his impressive beard growth that has attracted attention rather than his football expertise or aggressive nature.

The former Republic of Ireland captain has been experimenting with his facial hair quite frequently since retirement, but he’s recently had a clean shave for a good cause, allegedly.

Apparently a group of Cork locals are rallying to raise funds to erect a statue of the Rebel County’s other celebrated former Manchester United star – Denis Irwin.

Keane and Irwin played together for many years at Old Trafford and Lansdowne Road, and the former full-back earned his compatriot’s much sought-after respect for his efficient and professional style on and off the pitch.

And, following Ireland’s 2-2 draw with Slovakia on Tuesday, Keane supposedly made a quick trip back to Cork to take part in a fundraising event, whereby he removed his facial locks in return for funds towards building the statue, according to banter-merchants Joe.ie anyway.

Worth remembering, though, it is April 1.