Greater Manchester Police said that a number of complaints were received after the incident at Old Trafford in April 2001.

Officers spoke to the player soon after the incident and the tackle was recorded but it was decided there was not enough evidence to prosecute Mr Keane.

Police have promised to re-examine the evidence after the publication of the footballer's autobiography, in which Mr Keane is reported to admit the tackle was deliberate.

A small number of witnesses made complaints following the match

Greater Manchester Police spokesman

Mr Haaland has suffered recurring injury problems since the tackle.

In Keane: The Autobiography, the player is expected to say the tackle was revenge for an earlier row with Mr Haaland.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "We can confirm that a small number of witnesses made complaints following the match.

"As a result, the alleged assault was crime recorded and all parties were interviewed.

"A file of evidence was subsequently forwarded to the Crown Prosecution Service, who, after consideration, decided there was insufficient evidence to prosecute.

"Following the forthcoming publication of Roy Keane's autobiography, GMP will naturally review the evidence available and consider if any further action is necessary."

Manchester City and Mr Haaland are reported to be considering whether to pursue Mr Keane over the incident.

The Football Association has also said it will investigate the claims made in the book.