MANAGER Roy Keane today had a tip for Ipswich Town fans: “Put some money on us gaining promotion."

Elvin King

MANAGER Roy Keane today had a tip for Ipswich Town fans: “Put some money on us gaining promotion.

“At 12-1 to reach the Premier League they are very good odds.”

Keane says that he has his starting XI in mind for Sunday's Championship game against Coventry (kick-off 12.45pm) that is being shown live on Sky Sports TV.

And this is likely to include striker Tamas Priskin who is expected to complete a �1.7million move from Watford today.

And Mexico international Giovani Dos Santos could be on his way back to Portman Road.

“I believe we have a very good chance of promotion and I want to be looking ahead to the Premier League this time next year,” added Keane, who confirmed that he is still looking to improve his squad.

“We need to strengthen with one or two more, and I shall be looking for good characters.

“I am wary after my experiences with Sunderland and will only bring in good players who are good characters.

“It is character that will gain us promotion.

“You can't beat the Premier League and that's where I should be.”

Keane is happy with his backroom team and plans no changes on that score and happy with the players he already has at his disposal.

He is looking to change the way the team plays however, adding: “We need to show a lot more energy and pace. Ipswich were too predictable last season.

“If I don't get the club promoted inside my two year contract then I shall be a failure.

“Any decent manager can lead a side to half-way in the Championship and I want to be the best manager around.”

Keane revealed that he has settled well in the area and gave a revealing insight into how he views this part of the world.

“I have not bumped into one angry person yet,” he said. “No road rage, no nothing.

“Everybody is enjoying life, and that is fine.

“But the team has been too nice perhaps sometimes, and playing away at places like Sheffield United you need to show a tough side. And this is what we are aiming to instill.”

Looking ahead to Coventry where full back David Wright will come into contention after recovering from a rib problem, Keane said: “I don't know what we will get.

“It takes six games to get up to speed. We have had five weeks where I have been impressed by the players' mentality and they know that we train as we expect to play. You have to be fit to get into my side.”