Robbie Keane has played down speculation that he has joined the Shamrock Rovers coaching team for the new season.
Keane was in the Rovers dugout for yesterday’s pre-season friendly against Cork City.
However, the former Republic of Ireland assistant coach says he has only been involved with the club on a voluntary basis in recent weeks.
Keane is still an employee of the FAI, with the new CEO Jonathan Hill saying last week he intends to find a new role in the association for the country’s record goalscorer.
Speaking in an interview published today with online outlet The Coaches Voice, Robbie said:
“Even since Mick’s contract with Ireland ran out when Covid hit and wasn’t renewed, and Woody [Jonathan Woodgate] lost his job at Boro, I’ve been making sure I stay in the game by helping out at Shamrock Rovers off my own back,” Keane said.
“It’s a good chance to keep ticking over and keep practicing while I’m not able to travel any further due to Covid. I’ve got a lot from helping my local team; from helping players regardless of their experience or level.
“I’m a people person, and I played the game for 25 years, so I know what players want. I know training sessions that keep players engaged and demand a lot from them. As a player, I demanded a lot from myself – and that’s what I want from players I’m coaching.”
Robbie Keane, a member of the Shamrock Rovers backroom team, issues instructions during the pre-season friendly match between Shamrock Rovers and Cork City at @tallaghtstadium today.
📸 @sportsfilesteve https://t.co/lq3fS4Z6fg#RobbieKeane pic.twitter.com/Q9P7iTclnT
— sportsfile (@sportsfile) February 28, 2021