Barack Obama praises 'cousin' Robbie Keane as LA Galaxy squad visit the White House

16 May 2012 07:00:00

The President of the USA revealed his admiration for the Irish legend when the MLS Cup holders came to Washington D.C

Robbie Keane can add another person to his list of high profile fans - President Barack Obama.

The Tallaght-born striker travelled with his Los Angeles Galaxy team-mates to the White House as they were honoured by the President for winning last year's MLS Cup. Obama quipped that Keane was a 'cousin of mine' and also teased David Beckham during his address to the American media.

"Robbie arrived halfway through last season, scored his first goal in the first 21 minutes of his first game. His team-mates were so happy to have him that they filled his locker with what they called the 'pleasures of Ireland' -- Guinness, Baileys, and Irish Spring," said President Obama.

He added: "Hopefully Robbie has broadened their horizons a little bit since then," whilst Keane grinned behind him.

Keane's team-mate David Beckham was also on the receiving end of Obama's wit: "He is tough. In fact, it is a rare man who can be that tough on the field and also have his own line of underwear. David Beckham is that man," said the President.

The Galaxy defeated Houston Dynamo 1-0 last November to clinch the MLS Cup. After the reception Keane and his LA Galaxy colleagues joined the First Lady Michelle Obama for a soccer clinic and Q&A session with local children.