Saudis rule out Roy

THE president of Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad has confirmed his club approached former Manchester United captain Roy Keane but the Asian champions will not be signing the veteran midfielder.

Al Ittihad are scouring the world for a big-name signing ahead of their appearance in December’s FIFA Club World Championship and the ex-Republic of Ireland international had been linked with a short-term switch to the Jeddah-based club.

However, the club’s president, Sheikh Mansour Al Balawi ruled out signing the 34-year-old.

While Keane appears to be off the agenda the club are looking to sign an English-based player in 2006.