Keane sounds warning

Keane's career statistics

Manchester United captain Roy Keane has warned his club rivals that he will not be giving up his midfield place easily this season.

The fiery Corkman celebrates his 32nd birthday next month but he intends to keep his place in the United side, despite some new arrivals at Old Trafford.

Sir Alex Ferguson signed Eric Djemba-Djemba from Nantes during the close season with speculation over more midfield additions but Keane is ready to play a key role again.

"I honestly welcome it when new players come in. We've lost some this summer and you need a big strong squad. You want competition for places and the manager is always looking to improve things," he said.

"It is what you expect here and all part of the challenge of being a Manchester United player. It keeps everyone on their toes.

"Djemba-Djemba is being talked about as my replacement and Kleberson, a World Cup winner is coming too.

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"But the manager bought Seba Veron a couple of years ago and now he is bringing two more in. The more midfielders the better, so long as it is right for the team and the club."

After a summer where Keane took his Uefa B coaching badge and coached at some football clinics in the US, he is looking forward tho the start of the new season.

"I've had an excellent break but I've kept myself busy doing nice things with the family. Mentally I've enjoyed the break and I feel fine physically.

"The manager says I've been flying in training but then he's said that for the past three years. I've got two years left on my contract, hopefully I will see it out," he said.

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