'Angry Keane not a problem'

14 April 2012

Tottenham face a battle to hang on to unhappy striker Robbie Keane after the Republic of Ireland international stormed off down the tunnel during the 1-1 draw with Birmingham

The 71st-minute introduction of Egypt striker Mido provoked a furious reaction from unused Keane and his behaviour did not impress coach Martin Jol.

Keane is becoming increasingly frustrated at having to play second fiddle to Fredi Kanoute and England striker Jermain Defoe.

The £7million striker quit Leeds because he could not get regular first team football and the Irishman's patience at White Hart Lane is now being tested to the full.

But the Dutch coach was adamant that Spurs are not worried by Keane's display of petulance and warned the striker that the problem lay with him and not the club.

He said: "It's not about Robbie, it's about the club. We made some good changes and Mido had a great chance. Maybe Robbie was angry but it's not a problem for us, it's his problem. It was difficult enough as it was."

Meanwhile defender Stephen Kelly scored his first senior goal for the club against City and then declared that he fears their poor away form could wreck their UEFA cup hopes.

The right-back put Spurs ahead against City but Darren Carter's reply ensured the game ended 1-1 and the result leaves Spurs in ninth place but still without a win on their travels this year.

Kelly said: "The away form is holding us back. We've played well away from home and created a lot of chances. It has just been difficult for us.

"We've also been unlucky in a lot of away games, like at Manchester United. It was fantastic to get my first goal but it would have been great to get a win as well."

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