Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia: Martin O'Neill could take Robbie Keane to Euro 2016 finals even if he is out injured
After the Slovakia game, Ireland bring their preparations to a close against the Netherlands on 27 May
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Your support makes all the difference.Martin O’Neill has admitted he could take Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane to the Euro 2016 finals even if he does not make it into the squad.
The 35-year-old LA Galaxy striker has returned to his club after failing to shake off a niggling knee injury and will play no part in Tuesday's friendly against Slovakia at the Aviva Stadium having missed Friday night’s 1-0 victory over Switzerland.
Keane, Ireland’s record goalscorer with 67 in 143 appearances, will do everything within his power to make the 23 for what seems certain to be his final major tournament as a player, but manager O’Neill may consider including him in the party anyway.
The 64-year-old said: “I think Robbie would be thinking he would want to try to make the 23 first and foremost, and then we will see how things develop after that. He’s been very supportive the whole time he has been here and even when he hasn’t started in matches, he’s still with the team, so, yes, that is a thought, I must admit.”
After the Slovakia game, Ireland bring their preparations to a close against the Netherlands on 27 May, although a second game four days later against Belarus is a possibility.
Wes Hoolahan has admitted he will consider his international future this summer. The 33-year-old Norwich City midfielder said: “I will see how the summer goes and probably make a decision then.”
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