What The Papers Say

Last updated : 07 February 2005 By Brian Cartlidge

Keane's half-century calm's United's jangling nerves

Roy Keane's first competitive goal in 15 months and Wayne Rooney's third in eight days brought United a victory in which they scarcely had to slip into second gear. As an example to back Sir Alex Ferguson's claim that United are currently playing the best football in the Premiership, it may have been an unconvincing display, but at least the result puts the pressure - such as it is - back on Chelsea for this afternoon's meeting with Manchester's other club. Observer


Keane inspires United stroll

They will commence work on laying a new pitch at Old Trafford tomorrow, on the orders of Sir Alex Ferguson. If disquiet with the playing surface has been one long-running saga for Manchester United, Roy Keane’s quest for a 50th goal in a United shirt is another. There was finally a denouement yesterday, with the captain making a barn-storming, age-defying burst through the centre of a hitherto resolute Birmingham side to set up a victory which United believe could yet prove significant in the title race. The Times


Spectre of Glazer casts pall over Old Trafford

Despite a victory that helped Manchester United slightly close what is still a yawning gap at the top of the Premiership, officials and supporters were in sombre mood at the dark cloud hanging over their club. And it is not the threat posed to their title hopes by runaway leaders Chelsea but the news that sports magnate Malcolm Glazer is finally in position to launch a hostile takeover. Telegraph


At last Keane is worth the weight in goals

Given a choice, Manchester United's supporters would probably put their favourite chant as "There's Only One Keano", yet for more than a year it has been a case of only one short. Not any more for Roy Keane. Independent