THE former Republic of Ireland midfielder, 37, has signed a two-year contract with Coca-Cola Championship side Ipswich Town, who earlier this week sacked Jim Magilton.

Keane has been out of work since departing as Sunderland manager last December, but maintained the challenge and timing of taking over at the Suffolk club was right for his return to the game.

Keane will take his time before deciding whether the squad needs a major overhaul.

"I am very open- minded," he said. "There are a lot of injured players and a lot out of contract.

"It will be a busy few months coming up. I will probably be bringing in one or two players, but not over the next few weeks."

Keane added: "Funds have been mentioned. We will take stock over the next six weeks. It might suit me that a lot of players' contracts are up.

"I am convinced the players will enjoy working with me. I have simple demands - be on time for training and give 100%, then you will be fine.

"If they do not, it will be a very brief relationship. I have no problem with people making mistakes, as long as they keep going day in, day out."

Keane added: "I had five months out of the game, and while I really enjoyed it, I had this gut feeling that it was time to try something. I believe I can potentially be a good football manager.

"I have done nothing in the game yet, I did okay at Sunderland, but I want to do better than okay."

Coach Bryan Klug is in charge of the first team for tomorrow's game at Cardiff while Keane acquaints himself with his new surroundings.