Ex-Manchester United captain Roy Keane in talks to become Aston Villa's assistant manager

Republic of Ireland's assistant manager Roy Keane (L) and manager Martin O'Neill (R) stand at the dug-out before the international friendly football match between Italy and Ireland.

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Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane is in talks over becoming Paul Lambert’s assistant manager at Aston Villa, reports Sky Sports.

Keane, aged 42, was one of the favourites to replace Celtic manager Neil Lennon before pulling of the contention so as to stay as Ireland’s assistant manager under manager Martin O’Neill.

Keane recently announced his decision to continue as Ireland’s assistant manager, and a statement was released shortly confirming by the Football Association of Ireland.

The statement read, "The Football Association of Ireland today (June 2) confirmed that Roy Keane will travel with the Republic of Ireland squad to the US after he decided not to pursue the informal talks that took place with Celtic any further."

Roy Keane has confirmed that he will travel to the US after deciding not to pursue talks with @celticfc any further. #COYBIG

— FAI (@FAIreland) June 2, 2014

Aston Villa, on the other hand, are offering Keane the luxury of keeping his old job that would allow him to continue working alongside O’Neill, and assist Lambert at the Villa Park as well.

Keane is being looked upon as a replacement to Ian Culverhouse who was released by Villa last month following internal investigation.