Local club praises Robbie for not forgetting his roots

CRUMLIN UTD has praised Robbie Keane for “not forgetting his roots” after the footballer announced his retirement last week.

The Republic of Ireland captain announced that he will retire from international football following next week’s friendly against Oman.

The 36-year-old striker revealed his decision in a statement in which he described his 18-year international career as “a wonderful journey”.

In a post on the Crumlin Utd Facebook page, the club wrote: “Thank You Robbie Keane for everything, you’re a touch of class.

“To the greatest player to have ever worn a Crumlin United jersey, who still inspires every player that walks through the gates of Pearse Park.

“To mention your schoolboy coaches in your final farewell Larry Fox & Jem Loughran just shows everybody the gentleman that you are & that you’ve never forgotten your roots.

“You’ve put the area of Crumlin on the map for all the right reasons, for this we are forever grateful.”

The Tallaght man is Ireland’s record goal scorer with a remarkable 67 goals in 145 caps.

The LA Galaxy forward decided to call it a day following one final appearance in front of supporters at the Aviva Stadium on Wednesday.

“Today, I am announcing my decision to retire from International football following the upcoming game with Oman on August 31 in the Aviva Stadium,” Keane’s statement reads.

“It has been a wonderful journey for me to have played with the Irish national team for over 18 years since I made my senior international debut back in 1998. 

“I have enjoyed it all. It has also been a great honour, for both me and my family, to have been given the opportunity to captain my country for over 10 years. 

“As a young boy growing up in Dublin playing football on the street I could never have imagined the path my life would take – it has exceeded my wildest expectations.

“I have been extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to play for and captain my country – it was my ultimate goal all those years ago and it has been, by far, my greatest achievement.”

Responding to the announcement President Michael D Higgins congratulated Keane on his exceptional achievements in the Irish jersey.

“Robbie Keane deserves to be recognised and celebrated as one of the greatest Irish players of all time and his achievements with the Irish senior team over more than 18 years will take some surpassing,” the president said.

“Robbie has always been an inspirational figure for everyone in Irish football. On behalf of all of the Irish football fans, I want to thank Robbie for all he has given to Irish football over a glittering career in the green jersey.”

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross and Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Patrick O’Donovan also paid tribute to the player.

“Robbie has given everything for Ireland over the last 18 years,” Minster Ross said. “He has always carried himself with greatest of professionalism and put everything into wearing the green jersey proudly. His record speaks for itself and I am delighted that he can go out on his terms next week, and no doubt all the supporters will be out in force to wish him well on his retirement from international football.”

Minister O’Donovan added: “Robbie is an inspiration for young sports people, and we are all so proud of what he has done. His remarkable scoring record may never be matched, and he has scored some very special goals. His impact can’t be overstated and he was still someone the squad looked up to during European Championships. He has done the whole country proud and I am sure a big crowd will turn out at the Aviva Stadium next week to wish him well.”