Keane’s crucial summer

WHAT the Sunderland manager needs to do during the close season to keep Wearside on a high.

Sign a new deal: There is no imminent prospect of Keane walking away from the club which gave him his chance in management and where he enjoys working, but to banish all doubts — and reassure potential new signings — he should commit himself with a new contract.

Bring in experience: Sunderland need a few more grizzled heads in their line-up if they are to avoid ‘second season syndrome’. They were loath to join a newly-promoted club last summer but Keane should find it easier to convince targets this time. George Boateng has already been touted.