Keane warns rivals to expect a strong United challenge

MANCHESTER UNITED captain Roy Keane has warned their rivals to expect a strong challenge from the Old Trafford side in 2005.

The Red Devils have fallen short of their own high standards in the first half of the season, currently lying fourth in the Barclays Premiership, but nine points adrift of leaders Chelsea.

They have not been helped by injuries to key players, with main striker Ruud van Nistelrooy again sidelined with an Achilles problem and fellow forward Louis Saha out since November and not expected to return until next month.