Roy Keane hints at sensational managerial return to Sunderland 'in the next few days'
Roy Keane hints at Sunderland return
Keane quizzed on speculation and suggests agreement could soon be reached for return to Wearside.
Roy Keane has hinted that he is close to a return to management following talks with former club Sunderland.
Keane managed the Black Cats for two-and-a-half years from 2006, leading them to the Championship title and then keeping them in the Premier League.
A poor spell at Ipswich followed, and he has not managed a club for the 11 years since despite roles as assistant boss at Aston Villa, Republic of Ireland and Nottingham Forest.
That exile could be about to change, though, with Keane holding talks to complete a dramatic return to Sunderland.
Asked by ITV about the speculation linking him with the Sunderland job, Keane said: "I've no control over that, so no comment.
"But I've made it clear over the last few years I'd like to go back as a manager.
"Of course a club has to want you, you have to want to go to that club.
"Just as important the contract has got to be right. We'll see how things take shape over the next few days."
? “Roy, there’s been lots of speculation linking you with the Sunderland job… what can you tell us?”
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) February 4, 2022
“Are we losing you, or what’s going on? You can’t just leave me like that!” ?
Keep watching for some classic @IanWright0 ?#SAFC pic.twitter.com/6ILmP4EGqZ
Sunderland are in a decent position in League One, currently sitting third in the table as they bid for a return to the Championship.
Much is thought to depend upon the length of contract they can offer to satisfy Keane he is not just being used as a short-term impact appointment, as well as how he would fit into the existing structure at the club.
However, judging by his grin as he discussed the job as part of ITV's coverage of Manchester United's FA Cup clash with Middlesbrough, it does appear a deal is relatively close to being struck.
