Sunderland boss Roy Keane admits even he has to treat his players with kid gloves sometimes.

"We try to strike a balance," explained Keane. "We try to provide players with people who help them with property, like any club in England would.

"You have to look after players but they lose touch with reality. You get people doing everything for you, it's sad. I was the same at (Manchester) United. The club book your car insurance, travelling, organise mortgages, whatever. There is that dependency.

"There is always a queue of lads outside my office. It's a bad habit to get into. Who was the last player to use public transport? You go first-class whichever way you go. I'm not having a go because they have the right to spend your money any way they like."

Despite his concerns, Keane is confident he has the right blend of characters - and the right club - to prevent it infecting the Black Cats.

"I'm bloody delighted with the lads I have here," he said. "I don't think Sunderland is the type of club that can create too many egos. There's not too many bright lights or magazine shoots, this is a workmanlike club."