Robbie Keane has joined Indian Super League side Atletico de Kolkata.
The former Ireland captain had been without a club since leaving LA Galaxy in November last year. At the time, Keane said he felt that he still wanted one last major challenge in his career.
Keane said, in particular, the opportunity to experience a new culture appealed to him.
I feel extremely fortunate to have played for some of the best clubs in England and the USA, as well as representing my country at several major tournaments.
At this stage of my career, the offer to experience a new league and culture in Asia appealed to me. To join the current Indian Super League champions is a great pleasure and through hard work, I hope to bring the ATK fans more success and enjoyment over the course of the 2017/2018 season.
The possibility of Keane joining the current ISL champions was first raised a month ago when reported when the Irish Sun's Owen Cowzer.
Join us in welcoming Robbie Keane to the #ATK family. #AamarBukeyATK pic.twitter.com/q9kv6VLyes
— ATK Mohun Bagan FC (@atkmohunbaganfc) August 4, 2017
ATK will have a familiar face in charge during Keane's spell at the club. Teddy Sheringham, who played with Keane at Spurs during the 2002/03 Premier League season, was recently roped into becoming manager.
Sheringham said Keane's presence will be of benefit to the young Indian players in his side.
His enthralling skills with the ball and willingness to take on the opposition without inhibition is an asset for any team. I am sure ATK’s striking abilities will be bolstered with Robbie in the side. I am sure the young Indian players we have selected from the domestic draft will learn from him about the way he goes about preparing for a major tournament like ISL.
For Keane, the Indian league does have the added attractiveness of having a short season - it runs from early October to mid-December.
A move to somewhere in England - perhaps Birmingham as was mentioned recently by Harry Redknapp - could be an option for the 37-year-old come January.
