Other 36-year-old footballing professionals may be turning their hand to punditry or working on their coaching badges, but Robbie Keane is adamant he still has something to offer on the pitch.
Ireland’s former captain and record goalscorer is leaving LA Galaxy, who he has played for since 2011 and captained since 2013.
But that doesn’t mean a farewell to football, with Keane saying: “I look towards the next chapter of my playing career”.
He posted an upbeat message on Instagram after it was announced he was leaving the MLS side.
He wrote: “I can confirm that after five fantastic years I will be leaving the LA Galaxy. It’s been a privilege to have played my part in the history of such a great club and I leave with memories that will stay with me forever. Winning three MLS Cups, scoring over 100 goals for the club and being named as 2014 MVP are all achievements that I will look back on with pride, it’s been an incredible experience, I’ve truly loved every minute of my time at LA Galaxy.
“However, I believe that now is the right time for a new challenge as I look towards the next chapter of my playing career. I still feel as fit and sharp as ever and I am looking forward to my next adventure. Having now retired from international football I am ready to focus everything I have on one last major challenge in club football and will be taking time out to consider my options before announcing my next move.
“I would like to thank everyone at the Galaxy including the board, manager and all of my teammates for their incredible support during my time in LA. Finally, I would like to thank the most important people at the club; the fans. Thank you for welcoming me as one of your own and for helping to make LA such a special place for both me and my family.
“The city has become my second home and I will never forget the unbelievable backing you’ve given me during my time at the Galaxy. The great times we have shared will stay with me forever. I look forward to watching the club continue to grow and progress in the coming years. It’s been an honour to captain your team and I am so proud of everything we have achieved together. Thank you for everything.”
Former teammates may be happy to head for retirement but it sounds like Robbie is determined for one last hurrah.
League of Ireland fans are hoping it could take place back on home turf.
Robbie Keane to come home to Tallaght and play with Rovers? Be great for the league if does happen. Another boost for #LOI after Dundalk
— Luke Jordan (@L_Jordan4) November 18, 2016
That LOI Transfers page has be blocked. Damn. Any gossip? Madden to Pats? Robbie Keane to Rovers? Bolger to Celtic? Kevin Doyle to Dundalk?
— Johnny Keegan (@JohnnyKeegan) November 17, 2016
Wonder if Robbie Keane could be LOI bound?
— . (@RM4Saints) November 18, 2016
"Robbie Keane" hopefully he'll come play one season in the Irish league @CorkCityFC sign him up :)
— Shawn Haynes (@Shawn_180) November 18, 2016
