LA Galaxy striker Robbie Keane feels it is important that the LA Galaxy players step up when a midfielder of the quality of David Beckham is missing.

The English veteran is in doubt for this weekend's clash with Sporting Kansas City because of an assortment of niggling injuries but Keane says Beckham's possible absence is a chance for someone else to prove themselves for the reigning MLS champions.

"David is very [important] to what we're trying to do here, obviously, with free kicks and the assists he produces every year," Keane said.

"It's up to the players now who when David's out to take responsibility and take the chance and make the most of it."

He added: "I try to take free kicks as much as I can but when David's there, he's the man for free kicks. If David's not there, then it's up to someone else to take the responsibility. I'm very happy to do that."

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