Former Kop hero McManaman backs Keane to deliver the goods at Liverpool

By Laura Williamson
Last updated at 3:36 PM on 01st February 2009

Steve McManaman has backed Robbie Keane to stay at Liverpool and work hard to earn his place in the first team.

Keane, 28, joined Liverpool from Spurs last summer but has failed to justify his £20.3million price tag and was left out of Rafael Benitez’s squad to face Chelsea today.

The Irishman has been linked with a move back to White Hart Lane before the transfer window closes at 5pm tomorrow, but McManaman said Keane wanted to fight for his place at Liverpool.



















Head down: McManaman has no doubt Keane (above) will succeed at Anfield

McManaman said: ‘I spoke to Robbie Keane on Friday. He’s very frustrated, but he’s going to keep his head down and keep battling. I don’t think he wants to leave, certainly not after six months.

‘Sometimes it’s hard to cement a place in a team. Rafa looks to change his team around a lot. If Robbie gets a run in the team, goals will follow. I know he could play a role [with Liverpool].’

Frozen out: Benitez has left Keane (right) out in the cold at Liverpool

McManaman, who made 364 appearances for the Anfield club between 1990 and 1999, is now an analyst for Setanta Sports and was speaking ahead of Manchester United’s 1-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford yesterday evening.

But the 36-year-old said his first club still had a chance of winning their 19th league title this season.

McManaman said: ‘Liverpool are struggling at the moment, since Rafa’s half-time school report on Mr Ferguson.

‘They’ve hit a brick wall during the last four games and Liverpool fans are starting to get frustrated with the team selections.

‘But they are certainly still in with a sight of the title. There are lots of points still to be gained and dropped – they just have to be more positive.’