Source: The Scotsman

CELTIC have not given up hope of persuading Robbie Keane to return for a second spell at Parkhead after assistant manager Johan Mjallby confirmed yesterday that manager Neil Lennon is still in contact with the Tottenham Hotspur striker.

Keane spent a prolific spell on loan at Celtic in the second half of last season after a high-profile switch from Spurs during the January transfer window. He scored 16 goals in just 19 appearances but could not save Celtic from the indignity of a Scottish Cup exit to Ross County. Nor could he prevent Rangers walking away with the Scottish Premier League title.

However, while Celtic are continuing efforts to strengthen both the midfield and defence, Mjallby stressed that the forward line is not being overlooked. Hull City midfielder George Boateng is currently training with the club with a view to making a permanent move, but the prospect of Keane's return will capture the fans' imagination. Celtic have been given some hope by reports from England, which indicate Keane is sure to move on from White Hart Lane this summer - either on loan or permanently. "I would be very delighted if a deal for Robbie would come through," said Mjallby, who has himself returned to Celtic after assisting Lennon on a temporary basis in the final months of last season. "I don't know Tottenham's thinking when it comes to Robbie. I have not been monitoring his situation right now.

"He did really well for us for six months last season. He is out of our reach when it comes to buying him. But a loan would be perfect for us. I don't know if Robbie himself would like to do it or not. (But] Has Neil been speaking to Robbie? Definitely. Neil only signed three or four weeks ago. As soon as he knew he was going to sign here, I am sure he was in contact with Robbie."