Keane expects a 'big season'

Roy Keane has revealed he hopes to see his Sunderland side battling in the top half of the Premiership table next year and also fighting for domestic trophies.

After a disappointing mid-season, the Black Cats have improved their form and survived the Premiership top with three games to go.

Keane's first season with Sunderland has gone to plan, and he expects to see more improvements next year.

"I think a top-half finish has to be our aim next season. I spoke to one or two people this week and they said we had done well but no, we haven't," he told the Sunday Sun.

"I think we've done okay but next year we certainly want to be able to challenge the teams around the middle of the table - at least.

"We need to do a lot better in the cups, too. I've been here for three cup games and we've lost each one," he said.

"We can certainly do better on that side of things, without a doubt."