Keane faces fine, not ban, for book

Roy Keane is more likely to be handed a hefty fine and a token ban if he is found guilty on two charges of bringing the game into disrepute.

The FA charges, which were laid yesterday, relate to his challenge on Alf-Inge Haaland. The first is for the 'improper motivation' behind the tackle and the second for attempting to profit out of the revelations in his autobiography.

But with the Republic of Ireland captain out for at least six weeks following a hip operation on Tuesday, the FA will look to impose a six-figure fine rather than make a ban the main penalty at a time when the Manchester United player is actually injured.

Keane is already facing a three-match ban for elbowing Republic team-mate Jason McAteer in United's 1-1 draw at Sunderland on Saturday, his final game before surgery. FA bosses are concerned that Keane is making money from his controversial book which includes the passage on his 'tackle' on Haaland at Old Trafford two years ago.

In the book, he says: 'I hadn't forgotten Alfie. Bryan Robson told me to take my time.You'll get your chance, Roy. Wait. 'He had the ball on the far touchline. I'd waited long enough. I hit him hard. The ball was there (I think). Take that. I didn't wait for Mr Elleray to show the card. I turned and walked to the dressing room.'

The FA were preparing to hand out a three-match suspension until Keane underwent the operation which has ruled him out of the opening stages of United's Champions League campaign.

Keane, and Manchester United, will fight the charge, however, and author Eamonn Dunphy, who has claimed responsibility for most of the language used in the book, could also be called to give evidence.

Meanwhile, it has emerged that Keane apologised to United team-mate Phil Neville following the Sunderland game after he shoved the England full-back when he gave away a free-kick.