We’ll see how things take shape – Roy Keane hints at possible Sunderland return
The Irishman took the Black Cats into the Premier League during a two-year spell at the club between 2006 and 2008.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Roy Keane has hinted that he could become Sunderland manager again and suggested the next few days will determine whether he returns to the Stadium of Light.
Keane has been linked with returning to the club he managed between 2006 and 2008 and led into the Premier League
Asked about speculation that he was actually on Wearside on Friday, Keane told ITV while working as a pundit for Manchester United’s FA Cup tie with Middlesbrough: “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.”
Sunderland sacked Lee Johnson in the wake of last Saturday’s 6-0 defeat at Bolton, and with the Black Cats third in Sky Bet League One.
Mike Dodds has been placed in interim charge for this weekend’s home clash with bottom-of-the-table Doncaster amid speculation linking Keane, Neil Warnock, Jonathan Woodgate and Neil Lennon to the vacancy.
The PA news agency understands 50-year-old Keane, the former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland skipper, is at the top of Sunderland’s list.
Keane, then 35, was initially appointed Black Cats boss in August 2006 with the club lying one place off the foot of the Championship table.
He guided them to the title as champions by the end of the campaign and Sunderland finished 15th in the Premier League in their first season back.
But as his relationship with owner Ellis Short deteriorated he resigned in December 2008 after 27 eventful months at the helm.
Keane has since managed Ipswich and worked as an assistant manager with Ireland, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest.
He has also carved out a successful career as a television pundit for both ITV and Sky Sports.