UEFA U TURN

Last updated : 30 March 2004 By editor

Keane will be free to play in Europe from the start of next season after UEFA withdrew its appeal against their own disciplinary sanction against the Manchester United captain.

When Keane got sent off against Porto, the UEFA disciplinary panel opted to hand Keane a one-game ban. European football's governing body reacted by launching an appeal against that verdict, raising the suggestion Keane could serve a three-match suspension.

However, UEFA disciplinary inspector Gerhard Kapl has now confirmed the action has been abandoned.

"Given the situation in the European Champions League and taking into account Manchester United have been eliminated we are content to allow Roy Keane to play next season," he said.