Robbie Keane has apparently warmed to the idea of moving to Australia’s A-League.
Keane has been a free agent since leaving LA Galaxy at the end of the MLS season, having scored 83 goals in 125 appearances for the franchise, and has indicated his willingness to prolong his career.
The 37-year-old announced his international retirement last summer and while he previously turned down overtures from A-League sides, his wife Claudine told 2fm this week that it has now become a more realistic option:
“Initially when we left LA I thought I’d like England but now that I’ve been home for a little while I’m looking at the bigger picture,”
“I know nothing is forever and this is just the way it is for a few years. You take the opportunity and you grasp it. Now I’m much more open. I think I was closed off initially.
“Sydney came in and I just thought, ‘No, please I can’t go to Sydney now. That other flight was bad with two kids, you can’t put me on this flight. I’m going to crack up altogether. Now I’m approaching it differently and he is too.
“I think it’s going to be like most moves, a bit last minute.
“Rob really wants to play now. He’s had enough of just training.”
The former Ireland skipper has been linked with several clubs since leaving the United States with a move to England widely tipped with Preston previously considered a likely destination. Keane has also trained with Dubai side Al-Ahli and hometown club Shamrock Rovers in recent times in a bid to maintain his fitness.
A move to the A-League could be an attractive one for Keane and may have sought advice from former international teammate Damien Duff who spent time with Melbourne City. Liam Miller also had a stint down under while Roy O’Donovan, formerly of Cork City, and Andy Keogh currently ply their trade there.
However, he faces a battle to convince suitors of his fitness, with the Daily Star reporting on Thursday that Western Sydney Warriors have dropped their interest in the former Ireland captain.
Nick Menezes, Pundit Arena
Read More About: A-League, damien duff, LA Galaxy, Preston, robbie keane, Shamrock Rovers
