Keane decided it was time to undergo surgery on a hip problem which plagued him before his ill-fated World Cup trip to the Far East with Ireland this summer.

It proved to be a wise move as he is now also serving a five-match FA ban after being found guilty of two disrepute charges arising out of comments made in his autobiography.

However, it also deprived United of their most influential player at a time when the Old Trafford outfit are struggling for consistency and confidence.

Keane will be joined by Nicky Butt, David Beckham, Rio Ferdinand and possibly Gary Neville in the stands on Saturday when the Red Devils take on Newcastle aiming to end a run of one win from five league outings.

The Cork-born player admits watching his team-mates struggle has been a frustrating experience, especially as he feels results should be better than they are.

“We have one or two injuries but that is too easy an excuse for people to use,” Keane told MUTV.

“It is a great opportunity for players coming into the team to show what they can do and the team we put out on Sunday was capable of beating West Ham away.”

In analysing United’s performance in the disappointing 1-1 draw at Upton Park, Keane indicated the team were lacking in confidence, especially Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who wasted three chances he would normally have snapped up.

With big games against Liverpool and Arsenal to follow the Magpies clash, United know that if results go against them, their championship hopes will be over.

And though he is happy with the improvement he has made in his own fitness fight, Keane confirmed he has still not started to twist and turn and will not put a date on his anticipated return.

“I am doing really well and working hard, especially in the last three or four weeks,” he said.

“I would like to be helping out the team and doing my job on the pitch but I have to be patient.

“I don’t want to set myself targets which might be unrealistic. I will just listen to the surgeon and hopefully be able to continue following the fitness programme I have been given. Once I’m ready to twist and turn it won’t be long before I am back in the team.

“It is the first time anyone at the club has had this type of injury and maybe that’s part of the reason why I put off surgery in the first place.

“But I am glad to have had it done and mentally and physically I feel good.”