Tottenham Hotspur Striker Robbie Keane Headed To West Ham

Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane will finish the 2010-11 season at Upton Park with West Ham United. The loan was confirmed Sunday night after weeks of back-and-forth between the London clubs. The Irish international signed a six-month contract that will be extended for an additional two years if he helps the Hammers avoid relegation.

Keane is the 11th highest goal scorer in the history of the Premier League era. As of December 5, 2010, he had struck the back of the net 122 times during stints with Tottenham, Liverpool and more. The Irishman is also the all-time top scorer for his national side, with whom he holds 104 caps and is currently team captain.  

Despite his many accomplishments, Keane has failed to find a place in Spurs’ starting line up since the arrival of Harry Redknapp. In January of 2010, he was loaned to Celtic of the Scottish Premier League, where he scored 17 goals in 19 performances.

Keane has struggled to find playing time at White Hart Lane since returning from Celtic for the 2010-11 season. Though he is only 30 years old, many feel that the Irish international is past his prime.

In an official statement, West Ham gaffer Avram Grant said of Keane, “I am really happy to have him. He can help us a lot and brings plenty of quality.” Grant went on to state: “Robbie Keane is not just a good player, but a good character.”

West Ham currently sits bottom of the English Premier League table on 21 points. Though Wolves also sit on 21 points, the Hammers have a goal difference of minus-19, while that of Wolverhampton is minus-17.

Keane, and other recent signings Demba Ba, Wayne Bridge and Gary O’Neil, have been brought to Upton Park to do nothing short of saving West Ham from relegation.

Robbie is eager to help to that end. “I am ready to help West Ham United to stay in the Premier League, which is the most important thing for this club. I want to help anywhere I can help the football club, whether that is in training, in the dressing room or on the pitch on a matchday,” he said.

Keane is expected to make his West Ham debut against Blackpool this coming Wednesday.