Former Celtic star Roy Keane shows rare softer side in Hollywood encounter

Former Celtic midfielder Roy Keane showed a rare softer side after meeting Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone during an appearance on The Overlap.

The Irishman, who spent the final months of his playing career at Parkhead in 2006, is renowned for his no-nonsense personality and outspoken punditry.

However, Keane appeared genuinely starstruck when the Rocky and Rambo actor joined Gary Neville, Jill Scott and Ian Wright for a special episode of the podcast.

The 54-year-old even arrived wearing a T-shirt featuring Stallone as Rambo, prompting Neville to ask whether he would become a “fawning schoolboy” when the Hollywood star appeared.

Keane replied: “No, Gary, don’t be silly, I’m a professional.”

Despite his attempts to play down the excitement, the former Celtic midfielder admitted he was hoping to secure Stallone’s autograph.

“He might sign it for me,” Keane joked.

Stallone also noticed Keane’s choice of clothing, greeting him with the words: “Nice shirt.”

The light-hearted exchange was a contrast to Keane’s famously uncompromising attitude towards supporters approaching him in public.

He recently addressed an encounter with a fan at Cork Airport, saying: “What is it? What do you want me to do? The guy was a pest! What is funny about? What am I supposed to do, do a dance for people?”

“They’re shouting your name out loud. What are you shouting my name for? Just come over and be polite. He knew what game he was playing.”

Keane, who made 10 league appearances for Celtic and helped the Hoops secure the Scottish Premiership title under Gordon Strachan, was clearly happy to make an exception for his Hollywood hero.

The full episode of The Overlap featuring Stallone has yet to be released.