ROY Keane has set himself the target of guiding Ipswich into the Barclays Premier League within 12 months – but warned it will be no easy ride back to the top flight.

The former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder, 37, has signed a two-year contract with the Coca-Cola Championship side, who sacked former boss Jim Magilton on Wednesday.

Keane has been out of work since departing as Sunderland manager last December, but maintained the challenge and timing of taking over at Portman Road was right for his return to the game.

‘‘I have had a good break, really enjoyed my time off, but when the opportunity came I was ready for it and it is good to be back,’’ said Keane, who took charge of his first training session this morning.

‘‘I have spent five and a half months relaxing with my family, treating myself, but I was ready for the right challenge.

‘‘It is a massive challenge trying to get this club back in the Premier League.’’ Keane – who took Sunderland to the Premier League in what was his first season as a manager in 2006-07 – added: ‘‘I have signed a two-year contract, but I would like to try and do it (get promotion) in one year.

‘‘I am very comfortable with the two years, if that means I am putting myself under pressure – so what?

‘‘It is all about the challenge, when I took over at Sunderland I knew that was a big club and I could turn it around and it’s the same here.

‘‘If I was not up for challenges I would be out walking my dogs today. I think my dogs need a break.’’ Keane had offers from other teams during his time away from the game, but insisted his ‘‘gut feeling’’ was Ipswich ticked all the boxes.

‘‘I am more than capable of working in the Premier League, but the fact that this club are in the Championship makes it a bigger challenge.

‘‘Hopefully the experience of Sunderland will stand me in good stead.’’ Keane added: ‘‘I enjoy working with ambitious people.

There are enough people with no ambitions in life, happy to go through the motions.’’ The Ipswich boss, though, warned next season would be no walk in the park.

‘‘Look at the teams that might come down. West Bromwich, Newcastle, Hull, Middlesbrough,’’ he said.