Keane 'looking forward to being a fan'

Ireland striker Robbie Keane says he is looking forward to "watching from the stands" as a supporter after bringing down the curtain on his 18-year international career.

Keane netted in the 4-0 international friendly win over Oman on Wednesday, his 146th and final match for the Republic of Ireland, to go level as Europe's top international goalscorer with Gerd Muller on 68 goals.

The 36-year-old admits the night was a hugely emotional occasion for him, with his family and President Michael D Higgins in attendance, and filmed tributes from Pele and Steven Gerrard on the big screen.

"It's been obviously an emotional week for me and the family and all I can say is thank you very much to everyone for coming out and supporting me," he told eirSport.

"It's been an absolute wonderful 18 years, I've enjoyed every minute of it."

Keane says he will watch Monday's World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade at LA Galaxy's training complex - "if they have the right channel!".

"I'm just delighted that the manager [Martin O'Neill] gave me the opportunity to say goodbye to the fans and all I can do is wish the lads good luck on Monday and going forward," he said.

"I was a fan at 17 years of age making my debut and now I'll be in the stands watching this team going forward with a great management staff, so I wish them well."

Keane was delighted to score on his final appearance for country, but admits he felt under pressure to net and give the 27,300 supporters at the Aviva Stadium a moment to savour.

"I could feel the whole crowd, all the players and the management staff were desperate for me to score that one last time and I'm just delighted I got the goal," he continued.

"And more importantly to finish on a high with this fantastic group of player, fantastic management staff.

"And to the best fans in the world I just want to say thank you very much and I wish you well."

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