Robbie Keane in frame for return to Premier League in coaching role with Tottenham
Robbie Keane had a successful playing career with Spurs
Robbie Keane could make a return to football as a member of Ange Postecoglou’s coaching staff at Tottenham.
The Irish Independent revealed on Thursday that Keane was walking away from his job as the manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv after a solitary season.
While Keane’s friend Damien Duff suggested last night that he was sure the Dubliner had something lined up, it’s understood there is no firm plan in place.
Maccabi did have the option to trigger an extension factored into Keane’s contract for another year, but they parted ways amicably as the Irishman did not wish to continue working in Israel. He received criticism for working there, and that escalated considerably after the Israeli response to the October 7 attacks with Keane committing to see out a league winning season before moving on.
His fresh availability has coincided with Postecoglou’s plans to make changes to his support team, with the departure of assistant head coach Chris Davies for Birmingham leaving a vacancy be to be filled – although it has been suggested that the Australian was already planning changes.
It’s understood that Keane’s name has now entered the frame as an option, as he has retained excellent links with a club where he arguably enjoyed the best days of his playing career although he has no prior relationship with Postecoglou.
Keane remains on good terms with chairman Daniel Levy who has given him references in the early stages of his coaching career, and they previously held discussions about the prospect of the Irishman taking an underage role with the Premier League side.
The idea of Keane being a part of Jose Mourinho’s backroom was also considered, while he was also a regular visitor to watch training during Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure. They are working together on Soccer Aid this weekend.
While the prospect of a Spurs comeback would hold natural appeal for Keane, it’s anticipated that he will have managerial options to consider with club representatives seeking to sound out his intentions since the news broke.
Keane’s backroom staff from Maccabi – including ex-Irish international Rory Delap – also vacated their roles this week. They would be keen to work together again if the right opportunity arose this summer, so it’s anticipated the 43-year-old will take time to consider options that emerge before making a decision on his future. Naturally enough, Keane has been linked with the Ireland job but that is not expected to be a runner this time around.
