Robbie Keane to leave LA Galaxy after five years

Former Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane has announced he is to leave the LA Galaxy after five years in Tinseltown.

36-year-old Keane, who retired from international football after scoring in a 4-0 win over Oman at the Aviva Stadium, announced the news in an open letter posted on the Galaxy's website.

That strike took him to 68 international goals – smashing Niall Quinn's previous record of 20 – and brought him level with Gerd Muller and, now, Cristiano Ronaldo at joint-fifth in European history.

In a decorated club career, Keane represented Wolverhampton Wanderers, Coventry City, Internazionale, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Celtic before moving Stateside.

"I can confirm that after five fantastic years I will be leaving the LA Galaxy”, said Keane.

“It's been a privilege to have played my part in the history of such a great club and I leave with memories that will stay with me forever.

“Winning three MLS Cups, scoring over 100 goals for the club and being named as 2014 MVP are all achievements that I will look back on with pride, it's been an incredible experience, I've truly loved every minute of my time at LA Galaxy.”

“However, I believe that now is the right time for a new challenge as I look towards the next chapter of my playing career. I still feel as fit and sharp as ever and I am looking forward to my next adventure.

“Having now retired from international football I am ready to focus everything I have on one last major challenge in club football and will be taking time out to consider my options before announcing my next move.”

Keane's coach at LA Galaxy, former United States manager Bruce Arena, paid tribute to his captain.

“It is hard to put into words what Robbie Keane has meant to the LA Galaxy. From day one, Keane has given everything to this team both on and off the field and has led our club to some of its greatest accomplishments.

“His resume and accomplishments speak for themselves; he has been the most successful international signing in this league’s history. We thank Robbie for everything he has given to this club and this city and we wish him the best in whatever comes next in his career.”

While the temptation for many would be to link Keane with a return to Ireland – and hometown club Shamrock Rovers – the more likely scenario would see the striker remain in MLS with another franchise.