Robbie Keane focused on football as he takes Maccabi Tel Aviv reins

Robbie Keane sidestepped questions about the politics of joining a club in Israel and said he was focusing on rising to a new challenge in his unveiling as Maccabi Tel Aviv's new manager on Tuesday.

It's Keane's first job as a manager, having been part of backroom teams at Middlesbrough and, most recently, Leeds United. He was also behind the scenes during Mick McCarthy's second stint in charge of the Republic of Ireland.

Sinn Féin TD Chris Andrews today called Maccabi an "apartheid club" and suggested Keane should have turned down the job due to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

"I don't want to get into politics," the 42-year-old replied when asked about criticism that has come in Ireland around his decision to take on the role.

"This is the last time I will say it. I’m here as a football man and someone that loves the game. I will certainly just focus on that but thanks for your question."

Ireland's record caps holder and goalscorer played in Italy, the USA and India in an eclectic and highly successful career. He was keen to stress his openness to new experiences.

"I'm not frightened of a challenge," he said. "A lot of players that have played in England, they are frightened to try a different opportunity or a different culture but I’m certainly not. I am excited by this.

"I strive for pressure. I've been used it to since I was younger. It doesn’t affect me. I’m a very secure person. I know what I need to do and I’m confident in myself and the team that will be around me. I look forward to it."

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