Ferguson says Keane is ‘the best’

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Alex Ferguson says Republic of Ireland midfielder Roy Keane is the greatest player of his time at the club.

Ferguson celebrates 18 years in charge today, the day before the Manchester derby, and says the 33-year-old is the complete player.

“It’s not just the quality of his game, it is also his influence and great determination,” said Ferguson. “There are a lot of parts to making a great player; he’s fulfilled them all.”

Keane has had a huge impact since joining from Nottingham Forest for £3 million in 1993, and Ferguson said the fact he was studying for a Uefa coaching badge showed potential for success as a coach.

“You never know with the present day players because they are quite wealthy young men and they might not want to be managers,” Ferguson said.

“But if he has the desire, he certainly has the qualities.”