Keane Backs Red Devils Title Bid

Sunderland manager Roy Keane is certain United will not loosen their grip on top spot in the Premier League and fully expects the Reds to retain the title this season.

United's 3-0 win over Liverpool took Sir Alex Ferguson's men five points clear of second-placed Chelsea and six ahead of now third-placed Arsenal.

Keane reckons United are "like an animal that has sniffed blood" going into the critical final stages of the title race.

"Get your money on United," he said. "They will win the title without a shadow of a doubt. They have had one or two slips, especially at City, but they have been given another chance."

The basis for Keane's comments, which came before the weekend's developments, is his knowledge of the United dressing room attitude.

Keane came to embody the Reds' spirit and determination during 12-and-a-half years at Old Trafford, and he insists they are attributes that still exist in the current side.

"They won't let it go," he added. "The desire is in the fabric of the club. A lot of it comes from the manager, and they have got the hungry players.

"Sometimes it is harsh to say that another team doesn't have the bottle. From my experience of being in that position and the other teams not getting the results, it can be such a fine line.

"I don't think there is a fear of losing [at United]. They are driven on by the expectation of the club. When you sign for Manchester United, you are going there to win, not to come second."