Young Joe Cole took the ideal approach to get back at Roy Keane for the intimidation tactics used by the Manchester United legend.

Roy Keane earned a reputation as one of the toughest players in the Premier League, making it a daunting challenge for anyone to confront him on the pitch.

With his piercing stare, the Irishman exuded intimidation, capable of instilling fear in even the most resilient opponents.

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However, in 2002, a young West Ham player named Joe Cole dared to stand up to Keane and his notorious tactics.

In March 2002, Manchester United visited Upton Park, vying for a fourth consecutive Premier League title, alongside fierce competition from Arsenal and Liverpool.

Meanwhile, West Ham featured notable players like Paolo Di Canio, David James, and Frederic Kanoute, along with Cole and Michael Carrick, sitting comfortably in mid-table.

The Hammers took an early lead with a goal from Steve Lomas in the eighth minute, but the Red Devils quickly responded—David Beckham equalized just nine minutes later, followed by Kanoute, who regained the lead for West Ham.

Ultimately, West Ham’s excitement was short-lived, as Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and Beckham led United to a 5-3 victory.

However, one unforgettable moment for Hammers fans was when Cole managed to dazzle Keane, something few players could achieve.

During the match, Keane signaled his intent to intimidate Cole, who was perhaps fully aware of the potential backlash for his daring play.

Although Keane appeared to strike Cole in the neck, the Irishman faced no repercussions for his actions.

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But soon, Cole would have his chance for redemption in a moment that has become legendary.

A deft back-heel from Sebastian Schemmel set the stage perfectly for Cole.

Noticing Cole, Keane saw an opening and charged in for a bone-crushing tackle.

However, a prepared Cole responded with breathtaking skill, spinning away and leaving Keane in his wake, with the ball flicked toward Kanoute.

The crowd erupted in excitement as they witnessed an academy product embarrass one of the Premier League’s most formidable players, if only for a fleeting moment.

Cole played one more season with West Ham before joining Chelsea in August 2003, where he enjoyed considerable success, winning three Premier League titles and two FA Cups.

After stints at Liverpool and Lille, he returned to West Ham in January 2013 but moved on to Aston Villa in 2014.

Cole concluded his career with spells at Coventry City and the American team Tampa Bay Rowdies, ultimately retiring in November 2018.