Tottenham striker Robbie Keane hopes his namesake Roy will be back in the Republic of Ireland fold in time for their next Euro 2004 qualifier against Georgia in March.
The Manchester United captain has not been involved for his country since his bust-up with then manager Mick McCarthy just before the World Cup, but McCarthy's resignation from the post has opened the door for Keane's return.
And Robbie Keane would welcome the midfielder back and hopes it happens sooner rather than later.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Roy Keane is one of the best players in the world and any team would want him in their side, and Ireland is no different.
"I think we want to get things sorted out as soon as possible. We've got a game in March and hopefully it will be all sorted by then."
The Spurs forward expressed his sadness at McCarthy's exit - and questioned the wisdom of those who criticised him so soon after Ireland had reached the last 16 of the World Cup.
"It's been funny. Everything was rosy, everything was going brilliant for Ireland. It has been up and down, no question.
"With the World Cup it's been brilliant but for some reason, after the last couple of games, the Press have been calling for his head, I find it a bit strange.
"I've got a lot of respect for Mick McCarthy, he threw me in for my debut when I was 17 against one of the best sides in the world, Argentina.
"He had confidence and faith in me and it's a shame to see him go. But now we have to move on."