Keane is lucky to be Sunderland boss

Posted on 6th September 2007

Sunderland manager Roy Keane has admitted he feels very lucky to be at the club. Keane was speaking after following his first year in charge of the Black Cats last week. Keane arrived at Sunderland in August 2006 for his first job as a manager. The Sunderland boss turned the club’s season around and they won the Championship after being mired in the relegation zone.

“I’ve got to say it feels like longer than a year. It’s been fantastic, I am enjoying it. I feel very lucky and I count my blessings that I’m manager of this club,” said Keane. “I know there is a lot of hard work ahead, I’m under no illusions - I stated that when we got promoted. I’m grateful to be here, I’m grateful to the fans who have supported me and the team, I feel that I've had such good backing off Niall and the board. We hope there are good days ahead but there will also be disappointments - like the last two weeks. It’s how we react to them.”

Meanwhile Grant Leadbitter says he is fully over his hamstring injury and has vowed to help Sunderland win Premiership survival. The influential midfielder was forced to miss the first three games of the season with the injury but is now back in the side and is raring to go as the Black Cats look to climb the table. Leadbitter knows it will be tough but is looking forward to the challenge ahead and also his battle for a first-team place.

“I’m fine now,” Leadbitter revealed. “The hamstring’s not a problem and I’m a young lad so general fitness shouldn’t be a problem - I should be able to blast about the pitch all day. I just wish the results could have been better for everyone, but it’s good to be involved again. Like everyone, I’d like to play every game and it’s up to me to show the gaffer that I can do that in the Premier League.”

Earlier Sunderland news

Danny Collins’ international career over?
We can survive in the top flight - Higginbotham
Sir Alex backs Keane to be top class
Keane not expecting the red carpet treatment
Higginbotham closing in on Cats move
Blackwell relishes result over Black Cats
Sunderland to make few changes
Sunderland target happy to stay put
Edwards claiming deflected goal
Keane delighted with window business
Keane surprised but give credit to Palace
Simpson wants to be involved at Palace
Caldwell ready for move to Burnley
Darren Ward gets new Sunderland deal
Edwards worries about Sunderland’s defense