FORMER MANCHESTER United captain Roy Keane believes Carlos Tevez is symptomatic of the modern game and feels the Argentinian can expect “a hot reception” from fans of both sides if he makes an appearance in tomorrow’s Manchester derby.

While Keane does not believe the 27-year-old’s various antics will have united both sets of fans, the former Republic of Ireland captain does think they will both have a low opinion of him.

“You’ll have to go a bit further to unite the supporters of both clubs. I think Tevez has probably disappointed both sets of supporters. That is the way the modern game is going now – he has had his bit of punishment.

“I can’t imagine he is going to be involved on Sunday now but if he is I am sure he is going to get a hot reception from both sets of supporters. He will have to deal with that.”

Keane added: “There are certainly not as many characters around in the game, the type of players (who) properly roll their sleeves up and get stuck in.

“Every player seems to have a bit of a fit when he is taken off or not brought on. A lot of them are going soft so it is very difficult for the managers – everyone seems to be commenting on what a manager should do with a player. But it’s very difficult, the player is in a very strong position with contracts, the PFA.”

Keane believes United are still the team to beat but agrees neighbours City have come a long way and also feels Chelsea will always be a threat in this season’s race for the title.

He said: “My mindset was always try and keep City in their place: listen – you are doing well and making progress but we are still the big boys. That’s what United have to do on Sunday and hopefully they will do.

“I like Mancini. I like the way he talks, the way he deals with his players. It’s certainly not easy, big egos involved there. But talk is cheap. If City want to make real progress they have to turn up on Sunday and turn United over. If not I would say keep quiet.”