Robbie Keane Academy Cup launched

THE much-anticipated 2023 Robbie Keane Academy Cup has been officially launched.

The event, now in its fourth year, will take place across three days in April at Crumlin United FC.

Teams from Crumlin United FC, Shamrock Rovers, Benfica, Aston Villa, Wolves, Everton ,Burnley and Crumlin will participate in the tournament which takes place from April 28-30.

Speaking at the launch of the event, which took place at Manguard Plus headquarters, Robbie Keane said the tournament is a huge boost to both Crumlin United FC and the under 12’s who are integral to the event.

“I am delighted to be here to launch the Robbie Keane Academy Cup, it is going from strength to strength and that is really heartening to see”, he said.

“Manguard Plus has a big part to play in this growth, they are a loyal supporter which is vital.

“They, like me, believe in giving back.

“The kids playing at Crumlin United FC have the opportunity to play against teams from the big clubs and realise that they are every bit as good.

“I love this, as I didn’t have these options as a kid, we never had the chance to play against the big names and it is great to see them having the opportunity to showcase their abilities.

“My own young fella plays for the Academy.

“It is brilliant for Crumlin United FC; the lads put so much work and effort into organising the event.

“I just turn up but they do all the hard graft in the background”.

Teams will play 16 games over the three-day period at Crumlin United.

“The fact that the kids enjoy it so much is integral to the tournament, they absolutely love it and their confidence grows and this is first and foremost”.

Sean Hall, Managing Director of Manguard Plus said: “We are delighted to be associated with this tournament, Crumlin United FC puts an inordinate amount of work into it, they work tirelessly and Robbie Keane is brilliant .

“He throws his weight behind it and it is great for the kids to see him promoting it so much.

“He is an absolute hero to them and gives them huge hope and confidence.

“I’m personally really looking forward to this year’s event, it’s shaping up to be some tournament”.