Sky Sports: Robbie Keane still expected to arrive at Leeds United despite official announcement

Former Leeds United striker Robbie Keane is expected to return to the club to be part of Sam Allardyce’s coaching staff, according to Sky Sports.

The Whites have confirmed that Allardyce has taken over from Javi Gracia for the remainder of the campaign.

There is, however, no mention of Keane in the announcement, with the ex-striker set to join former Oxford Utd manager Karl Robinson in the dugout.

“Former Oxford Utd boss Karl Robinson has been confirmed as part of Allardyce's backroom team at Leeds, while ex-Leeds striker Robbie Keane is also expected to be part of Allardyce's staff,” according to Sky Sports.

Difficult task ahead

Allardyce has, of course, been there and done it, so to speak. And that is exactly why Leeds have turned to the former West Ham and Everton boss, who perhaps has more experience at the bottom end of the table than any other manager out there.

And given both the current run of form Leeds have and their upcoming fixtures, this job will be one of his most challenging tests in the dugout.

The Whites are essentially at an all-time low after four losses in their last five matches, with a very shaky defence coupling with a goal-shy attack.

In positive news for Allardyce, Leeds scored one goal in each of those five matches. They did, however, concede a massive 18 times in that period.

The manager is used to working with a watertight defence, so getting the back line in as much shape as possible may be his first priority.

Keane meanwhile can definitely help on the goals front, with the former Republic of Ireland star scoring 125 goals in his stunning Premier League career.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites are reportedly among three English clubs interested in signing one OH Leuven loanee this summer.