Source: REUTERS/Chris Radburn
[Saba Sports News] On the eve of Arsenal’s Premier League match against Leicester City, a pre-match commentary program took place where Arsenal legend Martin Keown was a guest commentator. He interviewed former Manchester United star Ruud van Nistelrooy, which attracted attention as the two have had a history of discord. The incident dates back to the 2003 Premier League season, when van Nistelrooy missed a crucial penalty in stoppage time, leading to Keown rushing in front of him to celebrate wildly, igniting a conflict between players that became one of the most controversial moments in Premier League history. Now, it appears that the two have reconciled, exchanging greetings by the sidelines. Van Nistelrooy initiated the conversation, and Keown solemnly apologized, saying, “I apologize for everything that happened back then.” Van Nistelrooy responded with a generous attitude: “What happened on the pitch stays on the pitch. I’m just happy to see you standing in front of me now, rather than behind me marking me.” This reconciliation marks the end of a 22-year feud, allowing both parties to reflect on the past and continue their respective careers.