Roy Keane remains a symbol of Manchester United’s lost standards, a captain who demanded everything and accepted nothing less.

Signed from Nottingham Forest in 1993, the Irishman won seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League under Sir Alex Ferguson.

His finest hour came against Juventus in 1999, inspiring victory despite knowing he would miss the final through suspension.

Keane left acrimoniously in 2005, but his attachment to the club never faded.

When Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January, Keane questioned whether his former teammate was experienced enough, arguing United needed a “bigger, more experienced manager”.

His scepticism prompted accusations of a personal agenda, particularly after Carrick defeated Manchester City and Arsenal.

Carrick ultimately collected 39 points from 17 league matches, securing third place and a permanent contract.

Yet that remarkable turnaround has unravelled spectacularly.

United have won only two of 12 matches this season, sitting 16th after Sunday’s 3-0 Bournemouth humiliation and a 4-1 Champions League defeat against Como.

Carrick escaped an immediate dismissal and will lead United against Chelsea on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are among the potential replacements being considered.

Now, fresh details have emerged concerning Keane’s possible Old Trafford return.

Roy Keane wanted for Manchester United coaching role

According to The Sun, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had Roy Keane lined up as a potential assistant manager if he secured United’s interim position in January.

Both Solskjaer and Carrick were interviewed following Amorim’s dismissal, but United chose Carrick, ending the prospect of Keane’s comeback.

Solskjaer and Keane remained close after their playing days, with the Norwegian previously praising his former captain’s leadership and admitting he valued his advice.

Keane has managed Sunderland and Ipswich, while serving as an assistant with the Republic of Ireland, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest.

He has not held an official United role since leaving in 2005.

The proposal concerned January’s appointment process. There is currently no indication United are negotiating Keane’s return, despite Carrick’s uncertain future.