Ferguson predicts warm reception when Keane returns

MANCHESTER, England, Aug 31 (Reuters) Former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane will get a warm welcome when he brings his Sunderland side to Old Trafford tomorrow, according to United manager Alex Ferguson.

Keane returns to his old club for the first time in a competitive fixture as manager of the Black Cats.

''He will get a great reception,'' Ferguson told a news conference today. ''I think that's one of the things that makes me proud of being manager of our football club and it tells you what a great club we are.

''When we have players come back to play against us, or in the case of Roy tomorrow and in the last few years Bryan Robson, Mark Hughes and Steve Bruce coming back (as managers), they get a fantastic reception.'' Keane was revered by the United fans during a 12-year career at Old Trafford in which he played 480 games and scored 51 goals.

The 36-year-old former United captain led the club to seven premier league titles as one of the British football's outstanding midfield players.

Injuries and an outspoken attack on some of his team-mates possibly hastened Keane's departure to Celtic at the end of 2005 but Ferguson admitted it had been difficult to see one of his best ever signings depart.

''It's happened to me so many times with players coming to the end of their career. It's a difficult time because you get attached to them,'' he added.

''They are almost family and when you see that moment they have to leave it's not easy, because they have been great players and great servants for you.'' Ferguson was not surprised by Keane's rapid move into management 12 months ago. The Irishman has been an instant winner, guiding Sunderland from the second division relegation zone to promotion as champions.

Former United striker Andy Cole, who scored 121 goals in a six-year spell with United, could make his Sunderland debut after signing a 12-month contract.

United won their first game this season against Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday, although Ferguson admits they still need more of a cutting edge to their game.

Louis Saha's return from injury will help, although Cristiano Ronaldo will again miss the Sunderland game as he completes a three-match ban. Gary Neville is still out, along with Wayne Rooney who is making good progress in his recovery from a broken foot, which will be scanned again next week.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is no longer a striking option for Ferguson after announcing his retirement due to a succession of knee injuries.

The former Norwegian international, 34, will now work with United's backroom staff as he takes the first step towards a possible coaching career.

''He was a fantastic professional, a wonderful human being and a dedicated footballer,'' Ferguson said. ''He's been a credit to our football club and to himself and his family.

''I think he can be a very good coach.'' Reuters TB GC2124