Tottenham Hotspur Boss Harry Redknapp Brushes Robbie Keane Critics Aside

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has silenced Robbie Keane's critics by declaring that the striker will bounce back from a devastating end to the Republic of Ireland's World Cup campaign.

The Irish camp is still in shock after what was one of the most controversial days in World Cup qualification history, when a blatant Thierry Henry handball led to the goal that knocked the Boys in Green out of contention.

But Redknapp has stated that anyone critical of Keane’s play and frame of mind would have to eat their words when Spurs play Wigan Athletic on Sunday.

He told The Sun: “He will pick himself up, he’s a strong character. Obviously it’s a massive disappointment for him, captain of his country, and it could be his last chance to get to the World Cup finals.

“But he’ll come back strongly. He's a great bubbly character.”

Redknapp added that the striker has been nothing short of integral to the club since rejoining them earlier this year after a half-season stint with Liverpool.

He said: “Robbie has been great for us, he’s got eight goals and his goal for Ireland the other night was fantastic.

“He has been a great signing for us. I hate it when I hear people criticising him because he played a massive part in keeping us up last year.”

The former Portsmouth boss went on to say that Keane’s influence at White Hart Lane gives his men the sort of boost that every club needs.

“It was no coincidence we went on a great run when he arrived back from Liverpool. The atmosphere around the place changed when he came back because of the way he is, he’s infectious,” he said.

Omar Dabbagh, Goal.com UK