Ireland record goalscorer Robbie Keane has been told that he has every chance of playing a major role at Tottenham this season.
Keane was loaned out to Celtic during the Christmas transfer window after Harry Redknapp decided that he could get through the second half of the season without the Irish striker.
Redknapp has stated this summer that he would only consider letting Keane go out on loan again if the player was unhappy with his level of involvement at White Hart Lane.
Keane faces stiff competition for a place up front but it appears he has played his way back to the top of the pecking order after some impressive performances in pre-season.
The 30-year-old followed up his goal against New York Red Bulls by finding the target again in Sunday's 2-2 draw with Sporting Lisbon, and could now start Tottenham's Premier League opener at home to Manchester City on 14th August.
"His situation is that he is still a very, very good player," said Redknapp.
"He looked sharp and bright and he is still very much in the plans.
"He wants to start every game and if he keeps playing as he did today, he can do.
"It was a fantastic finish and he is a quality player, one of our better players.
"There is every chance he could start."
