Roy Keane has a message for the Old Trafford boo-boys

There are not many men more opinionated about the goings-on at Manchester United than Roy Keane.

The club's former captain has thoughts on everything from the transfer policy to the style of play. Keano could probably even write a lengthy essay on why the kit has gone to the dogs in recent years. The latest issue at Old Trafford that has come in for criticism from the Corkman is the booing from the terraces and the incessant cries of 'attack, attack, attack.' "I just can't understand the supporter, a proper supporter, and I do understand frustration when your team isn't doing well, but to boo a manager or the team... why?" Keane said at a charity event this week. And the former midfielder pointed to the shortcomings that befell the Red Devils in years gone by to let unhappy fans know that things are going to improve. "Man United have had worse times than this time - they were relegated before," he said. "They have had great times but you can't keep looking back. They are having a difficult spell. I don't know Louis van Gaal, I've never worked with him. They are struggling at the moment but any club in their history will have difficult spells." But, unlike many, Keane doesn't leave all the blame at Louis van Gaal's door and believes the players must shoulder some of the responsibility. "I know the manager is getting a lot of criticism at the moment but sometimes the players have to take control of the situation. "I always think if you can pass it forward quickly then do it. Possession is well and good but it's all about putting the ball in the back of the net. "I see a lot of midfielders at Manchester United obsessed with possession and retaining the ball, but if you can do things quickly, do it."