Roy Keane has been named as new manager of Ipswich Town.

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

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

Keane told the club's official website: "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."

Evans said: "I am delighted that Roy has agreed to join us and we are completely aligned in our ambitions for Ipswich Town.

"He has extensive contacts in the game and is a proven winner who encourages his team to play the attractive football that Ipswich Town fans have come to expect.

"I believe he is the right man to take this club where we want to be - the Premier League."

The Suffolk club have confirmed Keane will be unveiled at a press conference at Portman Road at 4pm on Thursday.