Roy Keane: United Will Survive

Roy Keane is convinced his former employers Manchester United will cope without Wayne Rooney.

The Red Devils look set to part with their prized asset after it emerged that the England international is actively seeking a move elsewhere.

Rooney has openly questioned the ambition of the club and believes the time is right for him to take on a new challenge.

Ipswich boss Keane, who enjoyed a glittering spell at Old Trafford during his playing days, believes the striker is well within his rights to look for a move.

He acknowledges that his departure would be a blow for United, but feels those already predicting the demise of the Red Devils should he leave are wide of the mark.

"Players have opinions and if they want to leave then good luck to them," said Keane.

"Man Utd will more than survive."

It has been suggested that United, who continue to operate under crippling debts, are no longer able to attract the top talents in the game.

Keane, though, has been quick to refute that claim, insisting that Sir Alex Ferguson's side remain a massive draw to any player with ambitions of playing at the pinnacle of their profession.

He said: "If any player ever asked me, and one or two have, if they had a chance of signing for Man Utd, 'do it, you won't regret it'.

"I was there for 12-and-a-half years and I loved every minute of every day playing for that club, every minute of every day.

"I had chances to leave, many opportunities when my contract was running out, particularly when I came back from my cruciate (ligament injury).

"An amazing football club, brilliant football club."