McLeish ready to unleash Robbie

CONFIRMATION that Robbie Keane has joined Aston Villa on a loan deal is expected today with the player due to be officially unveiled at a press conference tomorrow.

Keane has already been shown in a video on the club website training with his new teammates, at the start of what will be a two-month loan from LA Galaxy.

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish could hardly be more enthusiastic.

“It will give everybody a lift, the team, the staff and most importantly the fans,” he said. “You are talking about a guy who is at his peak. He is in tip-top shape. At 19 there is a lot you don’t know but at 31 you certainly know a lot more.”

And the Villa boss acknowledged that the goal of performing with Ireland at the European Championship finals in June has been the key to Keane seeking a return to the Premier League during the MLS close season.

“Robbie wants to be at his peak for Euro 2012,” said McLeish, “and he feels he wants to keep right on top of his sharpness. So if he has that kind of motivation it can only be good for us. Fans identify with players who give everything for the team and Robbie is that kind of player.”

If the paperwork is completed in time Keane could make his Villa debut against Everton on Saturday, when he will come up against his LA Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan, who is on loan at Goodison Park.