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Robbie Keane: Knee Injury, What Now?

‏@GerrardUpdate

Galaxy fans, I have some bad news. Our favorite Irishman Robbie Keane underwent surgery today. He posted on Instagram an image of himself with an Ace wrap around his right knee.

 

Recently, the Republic of Ireland National Team called up Robbie Keane to play in its two international friendlies against Switzerland (3/25) and Slovakia (3/29). Unfortunately, Keane missed both matches. Fans received little news as to why. Coach Martin O’Neil told media that he wanted to rest Keane during the Switzerland game so he could play against Slovakia. Just a few days later, O’Neil announced that Keane would be returning to Los Angeles because of a knee injury. The knee injury might have occurred against the San Jose Earthquakes. No one knows for sure though.

So what does this mean for the team? Well, Bruce will have to make some changes. He has several younger players available—Bradford Jamieson IV, Ariel Lassiter and even Jack McBean who plays for LA Galaxy II. He also has Mike Magee and Alan Gordon.

Jose Villarreal might not be as plausible. He only played for thirty minutes as a second half sub on Wednesday when LA Galaxy II played St. Louis FC. He also had an injured and needs to regain his fitness.

Gio will be back soon. I don’t see him playing much either on Saturday against Vancouver though. I think he will likely be subbed off in the first half or put in after 45 minutes.

Zardes also will be back from international duty with the United States Men’s National Team. I’m sure he will start. He played well against Guatemala (in the second game, don’t get me started with the first one!), so let’s hope he has a consistent night and steps it up with Robbie Keane gone.

Don’t get me wrong. I love Robbie Keane. He has been an excellent player for the LA Galaxy, but I think we need to start learning how to play without him. LA must not rely on him like they did with Landon Donovan. Keane is aging at 35. He won’t play forever. Hopefully, we will do well without him. Keane has not been as productive so far this season, but that is partially because of changes in the midfield.

I think Bruce might play Mike Magee and (possibly) Gyasi Zardes up top with Gordon as a sub. He might also decide to play Lletget and Zardes there and sub Gordon to replace Lletget. Or, he might play Jamieson, Lassiter, or McBean. At this point, I have no idea who Bruce will utilize instead of Keane. He has so many choices!

For now, let’s just hope Robbie Keane recovers swiftly and correctly without any hiccups or further injuries. Get well, Robbie!

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