Former Sunderland manager Roy Keane has been appointed manager of Ipswich,

The ex Black Cats boss immediately targeted promotion to the Premier League ``at the earliest opportunity" after taking over at Portman Road.

The former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder has signed a two-year contract with the Coca-Cola Championship side, who sacked former boss Jim Magilton yesterday.

The 37-year-old has been out of work since departing as Sunderland manager last December.

Keane told the club’s official website itfc.co.uk: ``I truly believe that I am joining a club that has the potential, ambition and infrastructure to once again be a Premier League side.

``The club’s owner (Marcus Evans) and chief executive (Simon Clegg) impressed upon me their total focus on achieving this quest at the earliest opportunity and I can’t wait to get started."