Spurs striker Robbie Keane has been named captain of the Republic of Ireland for the friendly against Sweden by Ireland coach Steve Staunton.

The 25 year-old forward was at a press conference alongside the Republic’s new manager Steve Staunton prior to the match against Sweden on Wednesday at Lansdowne Rd.

The Tottenham striker was chosen for the role after goalkeeper Shay Given ruled himself out of the job on Sunday evening, and Keane is now set to replace former captain Kenny Cunningham who retired after the Republic failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Staunton is believed to have wanted an outfield player for the job, with Everton midfielder Kevin Kilbane and Manchester City defender Richard Dunne also having been considered for the role.

Keane has captained Spurs on several occasions this season in the absence of regular skipper Ledley King.

Bookmark/Search this post with:

delicious | digg | google | yahoo | technorati