By The Mad Hatter
July 28 2004

People claim he is ''finished'' and ''past it'', but Roy Keane still believes he is No.1. At the end of last season, Sir Alex Ferguson described Steven Gerrard as the most influential player in England, second to none. People claim he is ''finished'' and ''past it'', but Roy Keane still believes he is No.1

At the end of last season, Sir Alex Ferguson described Steven Gerrard as the most influential player in England, second to none.

But better than Keane? He doesnt think so. ''I ask myself the same things every day. Have I got something to offer Manchester United? The answer at the moment is always yes. When I feel like I cant compete with the Gerrards or the Vieiras I'll know.''

''The Gaffer was very complimentary about Gerrard, and he's a very good player, but I still feel Im better than him.Thats being big headed. People compare me with him and Vieira, well I still fancy my chances.''

Hip problems have forced a change in Keane's game, but he believes it has not been as drastic as some say. ''I got to the point where I had to balance my game. I was never going to come back from hip surgery the same player I was in my prime.''

''The manager tried to address the problem last season by resting me, but I dont think it worked. I think I could have helped the team in those games I missed. I want to play as much as I can.''

Talking about last season, Keane believes the best team wins the league, and thats what happened. ''But I couldnt really care less what happened with Arsenal. You get a medal and it doesnt matter if you've lost 10 games or none.''

But how long does the Man Utd skipper have left? ''I'm very focused, Ive got two years left on my contract and I've every intention of staying here for at least that long.''

But when Keane's time is up, and he can no longer perform to his best, he expects no favours from his manager. ''I dont think he'll be too loyal with me when the time comes, in fact Im convinced of it. I dont want to go on beyond my time.''

However, Keane's thoughts now are focused on the present and the new season, as Man Utd seek to wrest the Premiership title back from Highbury and deliver in the Champions League.