Matic discusses comparison with childhood idol Keane

Matt Stead

Nemanja Matic is looking forward to having “a chat” with Roy Keane when Serbia face Republic of Ireland on Tuesday evening.

The two countries face off in World Cup 2018 qualifying Group D, with the winner strengthening their claim for a place at the finals in Russia next summer.

Matic’s Serbia currently top the group with 15 points after seven games, with Ireland just one place and two points behind.

Wales are a further two points behind in third, and so a victory for either side would represent a huge step towards Russia.

Matic is concentrated on the job at hand, but is also awaiting meeting former Manchester United midfielder and current Ireland assistant manager Keane, whom he idolised growing up.

“I will be happy to see him and have a chat with him,” Matic said.

“He is a legend of Man United and was a very important player for them for a long time.

“When I was young, when I started playing football, he was at his best and was a great player, one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

“I tried to take from every player something good to improve myself, and he was one. I am happy now that I play in the same club as he played.”