Edwards: Villa return would be perfect for Keane

Robbie Keane looks set to return for a spell in the Premier League this winter and Aston Villa are favourites to sign the 32-year-old again.

The Ireland captain has scored 16 goals in America with LA Galaxy so far and a spell in England’s top flight on loan would keep him sharp.

Jamie Edwards, a coach with New York Red Bulls who worked with Villa’s neighbours Walsall, said: “In my opinion he still has the potential to play at a Premier League Club. The only question is, which club?

“If Keane went to Villa, he would play plenty of games. Villa need a goalscorer, a fast, lively, busy and hardworking centre forward who has a passion for playing for whatever club he plays for. Keane is definitely the player for Villa.

“He has a good relationship with the club and the fans and will be looking to stay fit and sharp in order to get ready for the upcoming season which starts in March 2013.”

Keane played under former Scotland boss Alex McLeish but Edwards believes he would fit in new manager Paul Lambert’s system perfectly.

“He will fit the style of play that Lambert has enforced into the team,” said Edwards. “The short passing and wideplay tactics will suit Keane nicely, dropping into holes to receive the ball and attack defenders, taking snap shots and not forgetting his fiery reactions to rebounds and tap-ins.

“There’s no doubt Robbie has an eye for goal. I watched LA the other night and he was fantastic, always looking to strike on goal and create chances.

“His first goal that he scored was 20 yards out and was very well taken, striking the ball low and hard off the inside of the post. Keane’s second goal was a beauty, after patiently making a diagonal run across the defensive line, he rounded the goalie and slotted it smoothly.”