Republic of Ireland legend Robbie Keane retires

    Former Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane has announced his retirement.

    The 38-year-old, who played for Tottenham Hotspurs, scored a record 68 goals in 146 international appearances and was recently named as part of new Republic manager Mick McCarthy's backroom team.

    He scored 325 goals in 737 appearances for 10 clubs during a 23-year playing career.

    Keane said: "Today, after 23 wonderful years, I am formally announcing my retirement as a professional footballer," Keane said in a statement.

    "From Crumlin United around the world to the likes of Milan, London and Los Angeles, I could never have imagined the path my football life would take.

    "It has exceeded all the hopes I had as a football-mad boy growing up in Dublin."

    "Leaving home at 15 years of age to pursue my professional career in England seems a lifetime ago now. I was a street footballer full of hope armed with huge ambitions and a determination to succeed.

    "All I needed was that one chance. I would like to pay a special thanks to Wolverhampton Wanderers for believing in me and giving me that chance."

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