Quinn to back Keane in transfer business

Roy Keane has been promised every possible assistance in his efforts to bring in new players before Thursday's transfer deadline.

Keane will take training for the first time today knowing the Wearsiders remain in the relegation zone despite Monday's win over West Bromwich Albion and have less than 72 hours remaining before the transfer window slams shut.

Chairman Niall Quinn knows the timing is not ideal but has pledged to help Keane in any way possible as he looks to strengthen a squad which will be expected to force their way back up the Coca-Cola Championship.

"We have inherited a difficult situation because the transfer budget suffered with all the other cutbacks," admitted Quinn.

"We know the window is closing but, on Roy's recommendations, we will go and try to help him out in the next few days."

At least Keane will feel a bit more encouraged about the task in hand after watching Sunderland finally record their first win of the season.

And, while he may have been watching from the stand and met his new charges only once, Quinn feels Keane's presence is already having an effect

"When Roy was introduced to the players on Sunday, you could almost see them standing an inch or two taller thinking 'we are going to be working with that man - that is incredible'," said Quinn.