Former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland skipper Roy Keane will be confirmed as Sunderland manager after Monday’s Championship match against West Brom, the club said.

The struggling side, currently bottom of the table after four defeats, have agreed terms with the controversial Irishman.

Keane was at the Stadium of Light on Sunday and has agreed to take over from manager-chairman Niall Quinn, who has occupied the role while a permanent choice was sought.

A statement on the club’s website, www.safc.com, said: “Roy Keane visited Sunderland today where he met with players and officials from the club.

“Keane and the club have agreed terms for him to be appointed as manager, and it is envisaged that he will sign a formal contract immediately after Sunderland’s game against West Brom tomorrow (Monday).”

The 35-year-old met the players after training and he is expected to be among the crowd as the Black Cats entertain West Brom looking for a first point of the season.

Quinn has been talking to his former international team-mate over several days, although he refused to confirm that after the news leaked out.

But it represents a major coup for Quinn and his Drumaville consortium after luring Keane to Wearside for his first managerial post. Ironically, he would replace Mick McCarthy, the man with whom he suffered a spectacular bust-up at the 2002 World Cup finals.

Keane’s appointment would give the club a huge lift despite his lack of experience, although with the transfer window due to close next Thursday, he would have little opportunity to strengthen his squad.

Source:Soccer News