Healy can be a useful Tractor Boy, says Keane

ROY KEANE says former Republic of Ireland international Colin Healy can still make his mark with Ipswich, despite his disappointing first season at Portman Road.

Healy, 30, joined the Tractor Boys from Cork City a year ago for €100,000 but played only five times before being sent on loan to SPL Falkirk.

Keane says Healy is doing everything he can to impress him.

“Colin had an opportunity this morning and trained very, very well,’’ Keane said yesterday.

“I always say you’ve got to train how you play and Colin Healy’s come back and I think he’s pushing for a place. He was unlucky not to get involved the other night at Crewe.”

The Tractor Boys boss says Ipswich fans are yet to see the best of the former Celtic and Sunderland man. “They’ve not seen enough of him. In the one or two games I played him last year he was unfortunate, such as Crystal Palace away when Jon Stead got sent off and I had to change his role.

“If anyone saw the reserves last year Colin played off the lone striker and did a very good job for us there. He’s a good player and he’s a good lad and we like having him around.”

Keane’s Ipswich have started the season impressively, winning all four away games – including two Carling Cup ties which have gone to extra time – and drawing their only home fixture to sit fifth in the Championship. It’s all very different from a year ago when they dropped to bottom after failing to win any of their first 14 games.

The ex-Manchester United skipper feels there’s a more positive atmosphere around the club this season. He said: “I don’t see any negative energy, I don’t see any players coming in feeling like it’s a chore to train or play for Ipswich Town. I think every player on our books at the moment is coming in and having a right go, and that gives you a chance.’’

Keane revealed he isn’t expecting any moves in or out before the closure of the transfer window but will continue to look for loan signings.