'In talks' - Ex Spurs, Leeds United and Liverpool talisman set for managerial job
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The former striker left his managerial role in Israel this summer and could make a swift return to coaching.
Former Tottenham Hotspur, Leeds United and Liverpool striker Robbie Keane is in 'advanced talks' to take up the position as manager of Greek side Asteras Tripolis having left his post at Israeli Premier League club Maccabi Tel Aviv this summer.
That's according to Football Insider with the outlet reporting that the 44-year-old is currently in Greece and holding negotiations with the side. Keane would replace the recently departed Milan Rastavac, who left the club after just three matches this season.
The former Republic of Ireland international led Maccabi Tel Aviv to a league title in his first season in charge last season but left the role a year into his two-year contract. Keane also reached the Europa Conference League quarter finals in a stint that came under controversy given the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.
Responding to criticism from Sinn Fein TD Chris Andrews last summer, Keane replied: "I don’t want to get into politics. This is the last time I will say it. I’m here as a football man and someone that loves the game. I will certainly just focus on that but thanks for your question.”
Asteras Tripolis currently sit fifth in the Greek Super League with a win, a draw and a defeat in their opening three fixtures. Keane worked briefly as player-manager at Indian side ATK in 2018 and was also assistant manager to Mick McCarthy for the Republic of Ireland in that year.
The ex Premier League goalscorer also worked as an assistant at Middlesbrough in 2019 and under Sam Allardyce at Leeds United in 2023 as the Whites were relegated from the Premier League.
As a player, Keane made more than 300 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur, scoring 122 goals. He is the club's eighth-highest goalscorer in history.
The striker also enjoyed stints at Liverpool, Leeds United, West Ham and Aston Villa during his career. Overseas time came at LA Galaxy, Inter Milan and ATK.
As a player, he won the League Cup with Spurs in 2008 and was Player of the Year for the club in 2003, 2006 and 2008. Keane also won three Premier League Player of the Month awards during his time in the top flight - in August 1999, January 2001 and April 2007.