Keane gives verdict on Man Utd's complaints - "Don't fall for that nonsense"

02 February 2023 , 12:26

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Keane gives verdict on Man Utd's complaints - "Don't fall for that nonsense"

Roy Keane doesn't see Manchester United's hectic fixture list in the lead up to the Carabao Cup final as an issue.

The Red Devils comfortably saw off Nottingham Forest in the semi-final and will head to Wembley, where they will take on Newcastle in the sides' first final showdown since the 1999 FA Cup final. The Magpies, who beat Southampton in their semi, are performing above expectations this season.

Eddie Howe's side could swoop into the top four and will only play three times before the final at Wembley - half the amount of games United face. Many believe it will aid their preparation, but Keane believes it is "nonsense" that United will be handicapped by their amount of games.

He said on Sky Sports : "Listen, don’t fall for that nonsense that people say about fixtures. You have a big squad, you’re playing for Man Utd, you’re expected to be competing for trophies in big games, and this run of games I think is fantastic. Busy schedule, playing midweek means you’re being successful.

"Cup competitions, European games against Barcelona coming up - brilliant. That’s what you want. When you sign that contract to come here to Man Utd you’re coming here to win trophies. Last year was nowhere good enough, now they’re back involved, they’re competing, and that’s what you want.

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"The manager has said it many times before, it’s about keep working hard and learning and that’s what you do as a Manchester United player. You’re at Manchester United to compete and win trophies, just get down with it."

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Man Utd secured their place in the Carabao Cup final (Getty Images)

Erik ten Hag's side face four games in the Premier League as well as a two-legged tie against Barcelona in the Europa League. The Dutchman, despite Keane's take, does believe that puts their final rivals in a better position. “Newcastle have an advantage, but it’s about attitude and mentality. When the players are fit, we can do it," he said.

Newcastle, who sit above United courtesy of a superior goal difference, have already played the Red Devils this term, drawing 0-0 at Old Trafford. The Magpies will play just three games in the next 24 days - taking on West Ham, Bournemouth and Liverpool.

Ten Hag is aiming to end a six-year wait for a trophy and he maintains that their final appearance is irrelevant if they don't get the job done. "It's great. Finals, you play them to win. It's not an achievement to come into a final. We want to win," he claimed. Jose Mourinho won the club's last piece of silverware by leading them to the Europa League in 2017.

Samuel Meade