Robbie Keane's 111th minute strike may have been the goal which won the MLS Cup final for the LA Galaxy last night, but the Dubliner's impact on the game stretched further than what he produced on the pitch, according to Galaxy boss Bruce Arena.
The Galaxy’s first goal was scored by Gyasi Zardes but according to Arena it was skipper Keane’s suggestion Zardes and veteran Landan Donovan switch positions which led to the opener.
Arena said: “He should be player-manager.”
Keane has had a sensational season for the Galaxy, scoring 21 goals and providing 14 assists in a deeper number 10 role, as well as being voted the league most valuable player, and Arena hailed his professionalism.
He said: “It’s very rare that an international player can step into this league, be adjusted instantly and not explain to us how we’re supposed to do things.
“We’ve never heard one comment about this is how they do it at Liverpool or Tottenham.”
Keane was given man of the match, or MVP, for his performance in the final, with his late goal atoning for a number of squandered chances during the 90 minutes.
Keane said: “I don’t worry about missing chances.
“I always tell young strikers, as long as you’re getting into the right areas and you’re determined to get in there, you’re going to score goals because that’s what you’re good at.”
