Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane has signalled his intention to step down from the global arena after this month’s clash with Oman.
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The Galaxy forward made his worldwide debut for Ireland in 1998 at the age of 17 when they faced Czech Republic.
The 36-year-old Los Angeles Galaxy striker said in a statement he would retire from global football following Ireland’s friendly against Oman on August 31.
The free-scoring striker went on to play in four different countries for 10 different clubs, including Coventry City, Inter Milan, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Celtic, West Ham United, Aston Villa and LA Galaxy.
“It has been a wonderful journey for me to have played with the Irish team for over 18 years since I made my senior global debut back in 1998”, Keane said. The match will mark the final time that Robbie Keane, Ireland’s all-time leader in goals and appearances, will represent his country in his historic worldwide career. And even in the more recent years of his career he has been as enthusiastic to come and represent Ireland as when he was a teenager making his mark on the global game. I always looked forward to meeting with the team – it became a home away from home no matter what part of the world I was living in. He has scored a record 67 goals in 115 appearances over the span of 18 years.
The Irish take on Oman in a Dublin friendly before the World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade next month.
Keane, 36, is Ireland’s captain and leader for the most goals and appearances all time for his country.
Manager Martin O’Neill said: “After the excitement of Euro 2016 it seems as if we had little time to enjoy some excellent performances during that tournament”.
FAI chief executive John Delaney added: “Robbie has been one of the greatest Irish sports figures of all time and a truly great Irish man”.
Keane has been a star for the Galaxy since arriving in 2011.
He said: “I had always hoped this day would never come and I will miss putting on the Ireland jersey and walking out to a sea of green”.
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“It will be an emotional night for me, but I will savour each and every last moment”.
