Keane to 'probably stay longer'

Black Cats boss hints that he will extend his current contract

By James Dall   Last updated: 18th November 2008

Keane to 'probably stay longer'

Keane: May stay longer

I had a three-year plan in my mind when I took over and now it's probably going to be a bit longer.

Roy Keane
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Sunderland manager Roy Keane has hinted that he plans to extend his stay at the Stadium of Light.

Speculation over Keane's future has been rife with his current contract due to expire at the end of the season.

The Black Cats also recently suffered four straight defeats but responded last weekend with a victory over Blackburn Rovers.

Keane moved to slam the rumours over his commitment to the club after the game and has now intimated he is planning for the future on Wearside.

"We're just trying to build a football club," Keane said in The Northern Echo.

"Last Thursday night I was at a reserve match and our young kids from the Academy were outstanding.

"Maybe I need a reminder every now and again how hard it is and how long it takes. This is the start of my third season.

Patience

"I had a three-year plan in my mind when I took over and now it's probably going to be a bit longer. We've brought players in and it takes players time to settle, no matter how good they are."

Keane's solicitor has reportedly held two rounds of talks with Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn over fresh terms.

The former Manchester United enforcer added: "It takes time but you don't really get time.

"You just have to hope clubs are sensible enough to say 'listen, we all know where we're heading' and I'm comfortable with where we're heading.

"We're making good progress. But when you're losing matches, people don't want to hear that and I understand that side of it as well.

"I'm not stupid."