The word legend gets thrown around quite often in the world of sport but it's absolutely accurate when describing Robbie Keane and his contribution to Irish football.
President Higgins has paid tribute to Keane on his official website.
Responding to the announcement today by Robbie Keane of his intention to retire from international football following the friendly international against Oman on Wednesday 31 August, President Higgins congratulated him on his exceptional achievements in the Irish Jersey:
"Robbie Keane deserves to be recognised 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.
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, travelling 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.
I wish him continuing success at club level, and I wish both he and Claudine and their two sons continued happiness and good health."
Congrats to Robbie Keane on an amazing career for @FAIreland was an honor to play with him, he will be missed by all pic.twitter.com/QzFF3O8YFC
— Shay Given (@No1shaygiven) August 24, 2016
