Keane resorted to martial art to vent his legendary fury

ROY KEANE may have been the uncharacteristic personification of cool on the touchline at Sunderland this season, but rest assured he is still getting his kicks.

Black Cats goalkeeper Darren Ward insists there were no histrionics from manager Keane after Sunderland were humbled 3-1 at Colchester last Saturday, when they surrendered their 17-match unbeaten League run and ultimately the Championship leadership to Birmingham.

But Welsh international Ward, 32, has revealed that Keane has resorted to a martial art to vent his legendary fury at one particular object.

Ward said: “He was just his usual self last Saturday. Before every game, and at half-time in every game, he’s just been himself and spoken to us how he felt appropriate.

“The tactic board has had a karate kick on a couple of occasions — but that’s about it. The tactic board has been replaced now.

“But the gaffer has been very approachable and very calm in most situations. He’s obviously been round the block a few times in his career, and he knows how players react.

“Ultimately, it’s the players who have gone out week-in, week-out and got us into this position. The training and coaching have been fantastic, but as the manager keeps reiterating, it’s the players who have gone out and done the business.’’

Ward recalled: “I only came across the gaffer once as a player when I was at Norwich and we played at Manchester United.

“I was substitute keeper and I had to field one of Robert Green’s backpasses in the warm-up. It went into a possession game that the United players were doing in their warm-up, and the gaffer told me to get lost in no uncertain terms. I just said, ‘No problem’.’’

Ward, signed by Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn on a free transfer from Norwich last summer, recently agreed a new two-year contract.

He said: “To come into a team like the one we have here this season has been exciting. It’s a fantastic challenge ahead of us and the prize is great.

“The lads are very relaxed and there’s a strong belief that we have enough in our armoury to see the job through.”

Ward, who has a history of back trouble, played at Layer Road last weekend despite suffering a spasm, but is expected to be fit for tomorrow’s crucial home game against Burnley.

A Sunderland win and defeat for Derby at Crystal Palace on Sunday, would secure the Black Cats’ promotion.

Keane said: “Darren is OK. He just had a spasm and came in early from his warm-up. If I’d thought it was a problem, Marton Fulop would have gone in goal at Colchester. It did not play a part in any of the goals.”

But Keane admitted that right-back Danny Simpson, 20, is doubtful to face the in-form Clarets.