August 2011

The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy’s team of five finals is no different, which is why Luton Town’s Keith Keane finds himself in the starting eleven alongside some more recognisable names.

Having picked Kevin Nicholls in the trophy’s all-star line-up earlier in the summer, the competition couldn’t overlook his midfield partner Keane.

With wily old Nicholls using every ounce of experience to get him around the Wembley pitch against Scunthorpe in 2009, Keane was never far behind, snapping into tackles like a young protégé.

If ProZone did a chart measuring blades of grass covered in all Johnstone’s Paint Trophy finals, Keane would surely be right at the top.

The local boy produced a hyper-active performance which he later described as the best of his life. Few could argue.

Keane made his debut for Luton under manager Mike Newell at the age of 16, in a Football League Trophy victory against Rushden & Diamonds early in the 2003–04 season.

Despite playing out of position at right-back, Keane played well and stayed in the side for a further 16 games that season, his league debut coming in a 0–0 draw at Wycombe Wanderers.

Newell predominantly played Keane at right-back as cover for Kevin Foley, but he also featured in midfield. He was called up to play for the Republic of Ireland under-19 side in February 2004. Keane scored his first goal for Luton on 17 April 2004 as a last minute winner in a 3–2 victory over Bristol City.

During the 2004–05 season, Keane became a regular squad member. Appearing at centre-back, full-back and in midfield, he made 19 appearances in all competitions. Luton went on to win League One that season with a massive 98 points, rewarding Keane with a winner's medal.

The next season started with Keane as a Championship player, and as a Republic of Ireland under-21 international after making his debut against Cyprus, joining Foley in the side.

Utilised at right-back, left-back, in central defence and in right midfield during the course of the 2005–06 campaign,

Keane’s ability to play in numerous positions saw him make 12 appearances, scoring once. He was awarded the Young Player of the Year award that season for his performances, and was rewarded with a new two-year contract.

In the 2008–09 season, Keane made 40 league appearances, culminating in his virtuoso display at Wembley in April 2009.

Despite Luton eventually getting relegated, Keane’s displays earned him the Supporters' Player of the Year and Internet Player of the Season awards for the second year in a row.

Keane signed a new two-year contract with the club on 9 June 2010.

Johnstone’s. Bringing colour to the beautiful game.