While his role in the squad has evolved since the last tournament, Robbie Keane, the Republic of Ireland’s all time leader for appearances and goals scored will be a key figure for his team’s Euro 2016 campaign.
Role in the team
As the biggest name in the squad with the most impressive resume, Keane will be attracting plenty of media attention throughout the tournament. At age 35 he is the veteran of the Irish side and will be relied upon for an experienced head in any tight games. Having been a member of the Green Army since 1998, the former Tottenham star will be hoping that Euro 2016 gives him an international swansong to remember. Four years ago in Portugal Keane played in three games and only had a yellow card to show for his efforts. He will be hoping that he can score a goal or two to cap-off his remarkable career.
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Recent form
Keane started six games for the Irish side during qualifying and came on as a substitute in three more. Throughout the campaign he scored six goals, however, five of them came in the two games against group whipping boys Gibraltar. That was still enough to make him top scorer on the team though and the Irish will be hoping he can keep finding the net in this competition.
The striker’s domestic form for the LA Galaxy has given some hope, as during the six MLS matches he has featured in so far he has found the net four times – including a double against the New England Revolution. While he picked up a minor calf injury over the weekend, Keane still made the final 23-man side and is expected to take part in the tournament.
Most international goals by active European players:
Robbie Keane (67)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (62)
Cristiano Ronaldo (56)
Wayne Rooney (52)— Squawka Football (@Squawka) May 27, 2016
Conclusion
As his career winds down, Keane gets one last chance on the international stage to make an impact in a tournament setting. He may not get to play every minute, but he can certainly make an impact when he does take the field.
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