World Cup

Republic of Ireland refuse to release Robbie Keane early

By Mark Langshaw, Reporter | 10 October 2013

Republic of Ireland interim manager Noel King rejects LA Galaxy's request to release Robbie Keane after this week's World Cup qualifier against Germany.

Republic of Ireland interim manager Noel King has rejected a request from Los Angeles Galaxy to release Robbie Keane from international duty early.

Galaxy boss Bruce Arena had asked for the striker's return to the US after this Friday's World Cup qualifier against Germany, but King has opted to keep him for next Tuesday's clash with Kazakhstan.

"The Football Association of Ireland today confirmed that Noel King has responded this afternoon to the manager of LA Galaxy Bruce Arena to inform him that he has decided not to release Robbie Keane and trusts that he understands the position, having been an international manager himself," said the Irish FA in a statement.

"Bruce Arena had requested that the release of Robbie Keane be considered after the Germany match and before the international match against Kazakhstan in Dublin on October 15."

Ireland lie in fourth place in Group C ahead of the Germany match, with only a mathematical chance of making the finals.