Neville emerges as Keane’s surprise successor

THE unlikely figure of Phil Neville has emerged from a posse of Manchester United midfield hopefuls to become the natural successor to captain Roy Keane.

Doubts expressed over the vulnerability of the United engine room following the summer departures of David Beckham and Juan Sebastian Veron have been obliterated by Neville's superb early-season form.

From being a mere bit-part player in the Red Devils' persistent drive for honours, the 26-year-old has suddenly become an integral component of Alex Ferguson's plans.