Roy Keane Stuns Sky Sports Panel with Glowing Aaron Wan-Bissaka Praise
In a recent Sky Sports broadcast, Roy Keane, the famously outspoken former Manchester United captain, left the panel in stunned silence with an unexpected and glowing assessment of West Ham United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Known for his critical punditry, Keane’s bold claim that Wan-Bissaka is one of the Premier League’s best full-backs and the standout player for West Ham in the 2024-25 season sparked a moment of disbelief, followed by agreement from fellow pundit Daniel Sturridge. Keane’s remarks redefined the narrative around Wan-Bissaka, framing him as the epitome of a traditional full-back in modern football.
Keane’s comments came during a discussion about West Ham’s campaign, with the Hammers navigating a challenging season under new manager Graham Potter after Julen Lopetegui’s departure. Wan-Bissaka, who joined West Ham from Manchester United for £15 million in August 2024, has been a revelation. Keane, typically reserved with praise, declared, “Aaron Wan-Bissaka is one of the best full-backs in the Premier League right now. He’s West Ham’s best player last season, no question. He’s the proper definition of a traditional full-back—defends first, stops wingers in their tracks, and now he’s adding goals and assists. People need to give him his flowers.”
The panel, including host David Jones and Sturridge, fell momentarily silent, processing Keane’s uncharacteristic enthusiasm. Sturridge, visibly surprised, nodded in agreement, responding, “Roy’s spot on. I’ve got no words! Wan-Bissaka’s been unreal for West Ham. He’s brought that old-school defending back, but he’s also bombing forward, creating chances. He’s proving everyone wrong.” This rare alignment between Keane and Sturridge underscored the impact of Wan-Bissaka’s transformation since leaving Manchester United.
Wan-Bissaka’s journey at West Ham has been a story of redemption. At United, he was often criticized for his limited attacking output, despite being lauded for his one-on-one defending, earning the nickname “Spider” for his long-legged tackles. Keane, who previously questioned Wan-Bissaka’s defensive awareness in a 2023 Arsenal match, now highlighted his evolution. “He’s not just a defender anymore,” Keane noted. “He’s got five assists and two goals this season. That’s massive for a full-back. He’s showing what a proper full-back does—lock down your side, then contribute going forward.”
West Ham’s 2024-25 season saw Wan-Bissaka lead all Premier League defenders with 66 interceptions and 64 successful dribbles, per Premier League stats. His partnership with Jarrod Bowen, assisting four of Bowen’s goals, has been pivotal, notably in a 1-0 win over Arsenal and a 3-1 victory against Ipswich. Sturridge echoed Keane, saying, “He’s made that right flank his own. You see him shutting down wingers like Calafiori, then setting up Bowen. That’s traditional full-back play with a modern twist.”
Keane’s praise also reignited calls for Wan-Bissaka’s inclusion in England’s squad, though his recent switch to DR Congo internationally may shift focus to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. His standout performances, including winning West Ham’s Hammer of the Year award in May 2025, have silenced doubters. Keane’s emphatic endorsement, backed by Sturridge, cements Wan-Bissaka’s status as a Premier League elite, proving that traditional full-back qualities—defensive solidity paired with growing attacking flair—remain invaluable in today’s game.
Word count: 500
Sources:,
Sources:,
