Keane's transfer hits and misses
ROY Keane admitted during the latter days of his reign at Sunderland that Niall Quinn and his backers had given him everything he had asked for.
The Irishman was allowed to spend between around 80m on new players during his time at the Stadium of Light, and a debate continues over what value he got for the club's money.
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Here are some of his hits and misses.
HITS
KENWYNE JONES
Jones arrived in a 6m switch from Southampton in August 2007 and was such a hit in his first season in the Barclays Premier League that Keane valued him at closer to 40m. A threat in the air and on the ground, the 6ft 2in Trinidad and Tobago international striker scored seven goals during his first campaign on Wearside, but contributed much more.
STEED MALBRANQUE
The gifted Frenchman has added real invention in the Black Cats' midfield, and his direct approach has proved fruitful. He was one of three men to make the switch from Tottenham in a multi-million pound deal this summer and has adapted more quickly than some of his fellow newcomers.
ANTON FERDINAND
Ferdinand turned down Newcastle before agreeing an 8m move to Wearside from West Ham, and has proved a key addition to the club's defensive ranks. Strong in the air and comfortable on the ball, he has made an assured start to his career at Sunderland.
MISSES
CRAIG GORDON
Scotland international Gordon is undoubtedly a good goalkeeper, but a British record 9m price tag has weighed heavily on his shoulders. An unsure start for the club and recent injury problems mean he is yet to prove himself value for that kind of money.
MICHAEL CHOPRA
Chopra scored important goals for the club last season, but rarely got the chance to play in his favoured striking role. He cost the club 5m from Cardiff, who paid just 1/10th of that 12 months earlier when he made the switch from Newcastle, and is currently back on loan at Ninian Park.
GREG HALFORD
Halford's 2.5m move from Reading to Sunderland in June last year proved disastrous and he was sent out on loan to Charlton after just nine appearances and two red cards. He is currently on loan again, this time at Sheffield United.
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Friday 10 February 2012
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