SUNDERLAND CHAIRMAN Niall Quinn yesterday refused to enter a war of words with the club’s former manager, Roy Keane, simply wishing the Corkman well in his new job as manager of Ipswich Town.

In Dublin to help launch League of Ireland club Sporting Fingal’s Community Trust programme, Quinn wouldn’t discuss comments Keane made on his appointment at Ipswich last week regarding alleged interference in team affairs towards the end of his time at Sunderland, nor speak about a bonus, reportedly due to Keane should they avoid relegation.

“I wish him well,” said Quinn of Keane’s appointment at Portman Road. “I also haven’t publicly congratulated Mick McCarthy, another ex-manager (of Sunderland) who’s done great. I’ve an awful lot on my mind besides those two guys.”

Quinn had said on Keane’s departure from Sunderland in December he’d expect to see him back in management soon. “Yes, but I don’t want to be talking about other clubs. I don’t think it’s right,” said Quinn. “I wish him well. I can assure you I’ve one hundred and one things to do with our football club, so it’s going to be a tough few weeks for us.