Keane edge is proving crucial, declares Black Cats’ Bardsley

DEFENDER Phil Bardsley has cited Roy Keane’s ambition as a key factor in Sunderland’s drive towards Barclays Premier League safety.

Ten points clear of the drop zone with Saturday’s 3-1 win at Fulham, their third on the trot and the second in succession away from home.

Keane was quick to insist the job is not complete, and the mathematical equation still offers an escape route for beleaguered Fulham and Bolton inside the bottom three and also Birmingham and Reading, the most vulnerable of the clubs immediately above them.