MANCHESTER UNITED are resigned to losing the services of their influential midfielder Roy Keane for their Champions' League clash with Juventus next week.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder had surgery on his knee a fortnight ago but has not recovered sufficiently to be included in manager Alex Ferguson's plans for United's opening game against the European Cup holders in Turin.

"He is making good progress but the game has come just a bit too soon," said Ferguson.

United will also be missing Eric Cantona, suspended for one game after picking up two yellow cards when United were last involved in the competition twoseasons ago, and Philip Neville, who will be sidelined for another five weeks after an operation on his ankle.

Andy Cole is set to return to the United line up this week after recovering from pneumonia, and Ferguson is hoping there are no more injures between now and the match in Turin.