Roy Keane said he was moved by the reception he received when returning to action with the Republic of Ireland last night.
The Manchester United skipper ended a two-year international exile with an impressive performance for Brian Kerr's side in the 1-0 win over Romania at Lansdowne Road.
Keane came out last to a rapturous welcome from the 42,000-plus Dublin crowd, with only a few jeers being heard.
"It was fantastic. I have to say that over the last few days everyone has been brilliant to me, obviously Brian, the staff and the players, and it was just nice to get the game under way," Keane said.
"The fans' reception was something I'll remember for a long, long time. You try and stay focused on the match, no matter what kind of reception you get, but I have to say it was fantastic and it's good to be back," the United player said.
Man-of-the-match Liam Miller, who will join Keane at Old Trafford this summer, was also excited by the midfielder's comeback.
"It was great to be involved and I thought it was a great team performance from everyone," said Miller. "It was great to play with Roy and great to have him back in the side. He's a world-class player and a player we need."
PA