Brown: Keane inspired Highbury victory

Wes Brown believes Roy Keane’s outburst at Patrick Vieira was key to keeping Manchester United in the title race.

Keane clashed with the Arsenal skipper prior to kick-off in the midweek 4-2 win that saw United leapfrog the champions into second place.

Brown, who came on in the second half after Mikael Silvestre was sent off, revealed how his captain had inspired the win with the confrontation in the tunnel.

“It was such a big game and after he said it we knew it was one of those games where we had to perform,” said the 23-year-old.

“He said what he said, and I’m sure everyone who started on the pitch heard it, and we had to go out there and show them what we’re about.

“Our focus was always on taking the three points and playing well. We did that brilliantly and it was a great night.”

Silvestre was dismissed for violent conduct and will now miss three games through suspension, handing Brown a chance of reclaiming his first-team place.

United tomorrow go up against a Birmingham side who also won in midweek, beating Southampton 2-1 with loan signing Jermaine Pennant setting up the opening goal.

Pennant has the possibility of a jail sentence hanging over his head after admitting to a drink-driving charge while disqualified.

But Blues defender Matthew Upson believes he can fulfil his potential and become a Premiership star if he sorts out his life off the field.

Upson said: “He has had his problems off the pitch growing up, but I hope after this situation he can have a look at things and get things right off the pitch.

“If he does there is no reason why he can’t go on to be a top player. When he is on song his delivery of a ball into the box is fantastic – as he showed for the opening goal against Southampton.”