Keane: My dogs deserved a break, so Im going to lead Ipswich to promotion

Published: 24 Apr 2009 - 02:26:49

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Keane: My dogs deserved a break, so Im going to lead Ipswich to promotion

Roy Keane joked that his dogs needed a break on the day he accepted the mission to lead Ipswich Town back to the Barclays Premier League. The former Manchester United star was unveiled at Portman Road this afternoon after signing a two-year deal. Ipswich were last in the top flight in 2002 and Jim Magilton paid the price for not reaching the Championship play-offs when he was sacked yesterday. Mission: Roy Keane is aiming high Keane is now tasked with winning promotion and admitted that if he didn't fancy the pressure, he would have stayed at home to walk his dogs. 'It's a massive challenge to get this club back in the Premier League,' said 37-year-old Keane. 'When the opportunity came in late last night, I had to go for it. It's good to be back. If I wasn't up for the challenge, I'd be out walking my dogs. But I think my dogs needed a break.' Back: Keane takes over from sacked Jim Magilton Asked why he had decided to take the job after snubbing other offers, Keane added: 'My gut feeling, the ambition of the club, the history of the club. 'It's a proper football club. I think I've been very lucky with the clubs I've been involved with and I'm very lucky to get this job. 'Three or four weeks ago I thought, if the opportunity came up, I was ready for it. I'm excited and looking forward to it. I've had a good break. It's good to be back.'