Initially, Martin O'Neill had planned for Robbie Keane to start one of last month's friendlies against Switzerland and Slovakia.
A knee problem for the LA Galaxy striker meant O'Neill's plans were scuppered. He wasn't the only Ireland striker to suffer an injury during the international period. Jon Walters, Daryl Murphy and Kevin Doyle also sustained varying knocks.
Keane underwent arthroscopic surgery on his knee last week after returning to his club.
According to Galaxy manager Bruce Arena, Keane should be back in action in approximately a month.
He needed it; he had some loose pieces in his knee and needed to have those removed. It’s a fairly normal [occurrence]. It’s cartilage and a lot of players have some type of issue with their knees at some point. He should be fine. I’d say in close to a month, he’ll be back to full speed.
Barring injury, Keane is certain to be part of Ireland's squad which travels to France this summer in a leader/option off the bench role.
Operation done. Speedy recovery. Hopefully back soon, stronger.
Posted by Robbie Keane on Thursday, March 31, 2016
Picture credit: Cody Glenn / SPORTSFILE
