Roy Keane has resigned as Sunderland manager after two years in charge.

The 37-year-old has been under pressure following a dismal run of form which has seen the Black Cats slip into the Premier League relegation zone, but Sunderland insist Keane resigned because he felt he could not take the club any further.

The former Manchester United captain guided Sunderland to promotion from the Championship in 2007 but they have only won one of their last seven games.

Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn said: "I would like to pay thanks to Roy for all his hard work.

"His decision to stand aside and allow someone else to take charge of the next chapter sums up his desire to always do what is best for the club. Even in his departure he has been more concerned for the welfare of the players and his staff than himself.

"The board has reluctantly accepted his decision and wish him and his family well for the future."

Keane is understood to have been locked in talks with the club's hierarchy after weeks of rumours that his time as manager could be drawing to a close and with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.

He said: "I would like to thank my staff, players, Niall Quinn and in particular the fans for their support during my time at Sunderland and I would like to wish the club every success in the future."

Keane's assistant Ricky Sbragia has been appointed caretaker manager, with Neil Bailey and Dwight Yorke working as assistants.

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