Keane and O'Neill at Turner's Cross yesterday. Donall Farmer / INPHO
Donall Farmer / INPHO / INPHO
WITH 143 INTERNATIONAL caps to his name, Robbie Keane has lined out for Ireland more times than anyone else.
The all-time record goalscorer was set to add to that tally at Turner’s Cross tonight when the Boys in Green take on Belarus (7.45pm), but it was confirmed yesterday that he will have to sit the game out after picking up a calf strain.
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It’s cruel timing as Martin O’Neill will finalise his Euro 2016 squad just after the match, so he must decide whether it’s worth the gamble to include Keane and hope the 35-year-old regains his fitness in time for the first of three group matches on 13 June.
Keane is a huge presence in the dressing room and remains the one household name that opposition players and fans point to when they are asked about the Ireland team.
There is an argument to bring him along for his experience in a non-playing capacity as part of the backroom staff, similar to David Beckham’s role at the 2010 World Cup, but that could prove messy if he does shake off the injury during the finals.
If Keane doesn’t make the final cut, it could conceivably spell the end for Ireland’s greatest ever striker in a green shirt as many expect him to retire from international football after the tournament.
So, do you think O’Neill should include Keane in his final 23-man squad for Euro 2016?
Poll Results:
Just get the man on the plane, his experience is invaluable (2863)
Yeah, but only if 100% fit as he's still good for a goal (1508)
Sure, bring him along on the coaching staff but not in the 23-man squad (969)
Definitely not, he’s had his day (586)
No, there’s no room for players carrying knocks (338)
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Should Robbie Keane be brought to Euro 2016?
WITH 143 INTERNATIONAL caps to his name, Robbie Keane has lined out for Ireland more times than anyone else.
The all-time record goalscorer was set to add to that tally at Turner’s Cross tonight when the Boys in Green take on Belarus (7.45pm), but it was confirmed yesterday that he will have to sit the game out after picking up a calf strain.
It’s cruel timing as Martin O’Neill will finalise his Euro 2016 squad just after the match, so he must decide whether it’s worth the gamble to include Keane and hope the 35-year-old regains his fitness in time for the first of three group matches on 13 June.
Keane is a huge presence in the dressing room and remains the one household name that opposition players and fans point to when they are asked about the Ireland team.
There is an argument to bring him along for his experience in a non-playing capacity as part of the backroom staff, similar to David Beckham’s role at the 2010 World Cup, but that could prove messy if he does shake off the injury during the finals.
If Keane doesn’t make the final cut, it could conceivably spell the end for Ireland’s greatest ever striker in a green shirt as many expect him to retire from international football after the tournament.
So, do you think O’Neill should include Keane in his final 23-man squad for Euro 2016?
Poll Results:
The42 is on Snapchat! Tap the button below on your phone to add!
Where exactly are the remaining places up for grabs in Ireland’s Euro 2016 squad?
Ireland captain Keane a doubt for Euro 2016 after picking up injury in training
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Euro 2016 Fully Fit Have your say Injury Doubt Poll Robbie Keane squad announcement Ireland Republic