Keane - Punctuality cost Miller

Miller: Timing issues

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Sunderland manager Roy Keane has explained that Liam Miller was put on the transfer list because of his poor timekeeping.

On Wednesday, Miller became the eighth player to be put on The Black Cats' transfer list after the club confirmed that he would be allowed to leave.

And Keane has revealed that he arrived at the decision due to the midfielder's persistent inability to arrive on time for training.

"Liam is on the transfer list only because of his time-keeping, unfortunately," he said on Sky Sports News.

"There is no question about Liam as a player and as a talent. I have got a lot of time for Liam.

"He is a Cork man like myself. But I set very high standards at this football club.

"If a player can't be on time for training, then he really hasn't got a future with me."

Future

However, Keane went on to admit that the 27-year-old Republic of Ireland international could work his way back into his plans if he improves his punctuality.

When asked if Miller has a future at the club, Keane said: "I hope so. I think every player under this roof has a chance.

"On his performance last night he has got every chance because he played very, very well for the reserves.

"But as I said, it is not as if I go round crucifying or criticising players.

"In my time as a manger Liam has been late far too many times. Not just once or twice.

"We've given players the benefit of the doubt sometimes, but there comes a time when you say 'enough is enough'.

"If it upsets one or two people and one or two of our supporters I don't really care."