Robson backs Keane to continue

Bryan Robson has urged Manchester United captain Roy Keane to carry on playing when his contract at the club expires at the end of next season.

Keane has sent out mixed messages in the past week about hanging up his boots in 2006 – but Robson believes the 33-year-old could continue his career if he stays fit.

The Old Trafford legend and current West Brom boss said: “He has had a hip operation and a cruciate knee ligament injury. So he is the only one who knows how it affects him and he will make up his own mind about what to do.

“But when you watch him play at the moment, it doesn’t look as though anything has affected him.

“He is a fitness fanatic. As long as he is playing to a high standard he should go on as long as he can because there is nothing better than playing.”

Robson also believes Rio Ferdinand is United’s captain-in-waiting when Keane eventually departs.