Robbie Keane received a commendation from the President of the Republic of Ireland after announcing his international retirement on Wednesday.
Following Keane’s announcement to retire from international play, Irish President Michael D Higgins hailed the striker, declaring Keane “one of the greatest Irish players of all time.” Keane is Ireland’s all-time leading goal scorer with 67 career goals for his nation.
"Robbie Keane deserves to be recognized and celebrated as one of the greatest Irish players of all time and his achievements with the Irish senior team over more than 18 years will take some surpassing,” Higgins said in a statement. “From his underage success with the national side through his remarkable record of 145 senior caps and 67 goals, Robbie has always been an inspirational figure for everyone in Irish football.
“In recent years, his commitment to the national side, traveling from Los Angeles regularly to join with the team, has been remarkable. Moreover, as a representative of our country wherever in the world he has played, Robbie has always conducted himself with great dignity and has been a wonderful ambassador for Ireland.
“On behalf of all of the Irish football fans, I want to thank Robbie for all he has given to Irish football over a glittering career in the green jersey.”
Keane will play his final match for the Republic of Ireland next Wednesday when the Irish face Oman in Dublin.
