Carrick hails Keane’s contribution

TOTTENHAM’S England midfielder Michael Carrick has hailed striker Robbie Keane for leading the side towards a place in next season’s Champions League.

The Republic of Ireland ace has taken over the captain's armband at White Hart Lane after a foot injury ruled first-choice skipper Ledley King out of action for the rest of the season.

Keane has been inspirational in attack scoring his 16th Barclays Premiership goal of the season against Arsenal at Highbury last Saturday but Carrick insists the Irishman should also be praised for his leadership qualities.