“I could see that…” – Roy Keane opens up on Gareth Southgate Manchester United links

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has offered his thoughts on the recent reports linking Gareth Southgate with the United job.

Southgate, 53, has been heavily linked with the head coach job at the Red Devils, with reports first emerging earlier this month.

The Daily Star has since claimed that Southgate is Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s top choice to succeed current United boss Erik ten Hag should the Dutchman leave his position.

Read More: Manchester United rumour is “out of order”, fumes Arsenal legend Ian Wright

Southgate is also reported to have several supporters within the United camp, something that would be expected to grow following his call-up of Kobbie Mainoo to the England squad.

Keane, who served his entire tenure at United under Sir Alex Ferguson, has commented on the links between Southgate and United during the latest episode of Sky Bet’s Stick to Football podcast.

“I could see that happening [Gareth Southgate being the next Manchester United manager]. Well, obviously, everyone’s thinking he’s probably going to be with England this summer if he has a good Championship, thinking if they could win it.

“And if they don’t, then maybe they’re thinking maybe you’ve run your race with him. His connection with Dan Ashworth, who he has worked with previously. Yeah, I’m not that surprised with it.”

Discussing the links further, Keane’s co-host Ian Wright admitted that he believes Southgate has “the stature” to be Man United boss.

“I see Gareth Southgate standing on the line and the way he will be dressed, and his demeanour,” Wright stated. “I could see him; he’s got the stature to be Manchester United manager. The way he is.

“And we’re not talking about, I’m not being disrespectful, but in a kind of way I am, but his massive, big polo-necks, and he doesn’t look quite dressed, he looks like he’s got the stature for Manchester United with Erik ten Hag, sometimes you feel that.

“But for Gareth, talking about someone who looks the part, he’ll probably look the part standing on the line for Manchester United.”