From The MEN:
"It is completely different from when I started as a manager; not a heavier workload, though, because that has always been high.
"But it is harder because of the expectations now. That is partly because of the way the game has gone and the part agents and the media now play."
Keane is a mirror image of the Old Trafford boss on the pitch and there is mutual respect between them.
"His leadership qualities are there for all to see," Ferguson told the United magazine. "That is where he helps me most. I trust him and he's my captain.
"But as a manager you have to keep your distance from your players and can't get too close to any of them."
Ferguson added: "I think Roy Keane has certainly got the qualifications and determination (to become a manager).
"Gary Neville has that determination, too, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will make a great coach I am sure."