Legendary Dutch defender Jaap Stam says that Roy Keane is the best captain he ever played with.
The centre-back played alongside Keane for three years between 1998-2001. During that time, Keane captained Manchester United to three Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a UEFA Champions League success.
After leaving United due to a falling out with manager Alex Ferguson, Stam spent three seasons at Lazio before moving to Italian Giants AC Milan. At Milan, Stam was a key part of a formidable defence along with legendary Italian defenders Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini.
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Throughout his career, Stam played on teams captained by iconic players such as Frank de Boer and the aforementioned Maldini. However, according to Stam, Keane stands alone when it comes to being a captain and a leader.
"I can assure you, Roy Keane was the most demanding captain I played with," said Stam.
"Of course, I played with Paolo Maldini too who was exceptional as a player and a person. Roy Keane was one of the best captains that I played with.
"He was very demanding and it was so good for us as players. If you look at the standards he set for himself and his team, he was definitely the best.
"Maldini was a great captain as well but he had a different personality and was less vocal than Keane."
Keane spent time at Cobh Ramblers and Nottingham Forest before moving to United in 1993. The Corkman spent over 12 years in Manchester and won every club honour available.
He was appointed club captain in 1997 and led the club during the most successful period of Manchester United's history.
The fiery midfielder left the club in 2005 after falling out with Ferguson over the infamous MUTV interview. Keane spent half a season at Celtic before retiring in 2006.
*Jaap Stam was speaking to Boylesports. Find more information here. *
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