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Marie Keane, the mother of Manchester United icon, Roy Keane, has passed away. The family confirmed Marie died peacefully while surrounded by loved ones at Marymount Hospice earlier today.

A resident of Rathpeacon, just north of Cork city, Marie is predeceased by her husband, Maurice, who died in 2019, as well as her brother, Pat, her niece, Estella, and her nephew, Thomas. Marie will be deeply missed by her children, Roy, Denis, Johnson, Pat and Hilary, her devoted siblings, Ina, Annette, Josephine, Jack, Leo, Michael and Noel, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and an extensive circle of family, friends and neighbours.

Roy was understood to be extremely close to his mother, frequently travelling home to Leeside to visit. During one such occasion a few years ago, the star posted a photograph with his mother, describing her as 'the only boss he'd listen to.'

During an episode of the Stick to Football released last year, the Cork-born star became visibly moved after discovering a picture of his parents while reviewing his career memorabilia. The United legend was consoled by fellow hosts Ian Wright, Jill Scott, and Gary Neville, with Keane's strong family connection resonating with many fans.

The Keanes are a close-knit family, and the death of his father, Maurice or 'Mossie' as he was commonly known, had a significant effect on Roy. Maurice suffered a stroke in 2018 and died in hospital the following year.

Marie and Mossie were incredibly supportive of Roy's football aspirations growing up, and the pair relocated from their birthplace of Mayfield to Rathpecon after Roy bought a house for them following his Premier League triumph.

It's anticipated that many, both from Rathpeacon and Cork city, will attend the visitation to pay their respects. The visitation is set to occur at O'Connor Bros. Funeral Home, North Gate Bridge on Monday, March 30, between 6pm and 7pm.

This will be followed by a requiem mass on Tuesday, March 31, at 11.00 am in Farranree. The family has asked for donations to Marymount Hospice instead of flowers.

It's understood Keane was expected to be a pundit for ITV for England's friendly match against Uruguay. However, it's currently unclear as to whether he will be at Wembley this evening.