SIR Alex Ferguson has admitted he is surprised by Roy Keane's sudden exit from Sunderland.

Ferguson had been looking forward to welcoming his old captain to Old Trafford tomorrow as the Black Cats look to climb out of the relegation zone.

Instead former Red Devils reserve-team boss Ricky Sbragia will be in charge after chairman Niall Quinn failed to talk Keane out of quitting the Wearside hot-seat.

Ferguson was saddened at the news and feels Keane's absence is a blow to the Premier League.

"I am surprised," said the United chief. "Trying to cut through rumour and fact in football today is difficult.

"You are never quite sure what has happened and the rumour mill is operating at 100 miles an hour.

"But Roy was a great player here and it is a pity. We wish him well."

Ferguson has no idea when, or indeed if, Keane will return to the management ranks.

"It is difficult to say whether he will be back," said the Scot.

"He is an incredibly controversial character. Every week he always had something to say about the game. He was the same as a player.

"He is such an interesting character and did a decent job up there."

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