Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp has hit back at those fans who criticise Robbie Keane. "I hate it when I hear people criticise him. He played a massive part in keeping us up last year - it's no coincidence we went on a great run when he arrived," Redknapp said, according to The Daily Mail.
"I felt the atmosphere around the place changed when he came because of the bubbly character he is. I felt he was vital to us last season. I thought 'if Robbie comes back we're going to be okay.'
"That's the type of feeling he gave me. I felt he was a key signing because he was a personality as well.
"When he plays he's been great for us. It's difficult for people to understand what it takes to make a football team."
Keane's key quality is the leadership he provides, according to his manager.
"It isn't always just about having a team of superstar players - you need certain characters who make a difference to you, in the dressing room and on the pitch," Redknapp added.
"All the good teams have those type of people. He talks to players in the dressing room and on the pitch, and gets people lifted around him. He gives you all that and that's so important."
