1980: Born Robert David Keane in Dublin on July 8th.

1994: Chooses to join Wolves, then being managed by former England manager Graham Taylor, despite interest from top flight clubs.

1997: Signs professional contract for Wolves in July. Scores twice on his first-team debut in Wolves' 2-0 win at Norwich on the opening day of the season.

1998: Makes his international debut for the Republic of Ireland as a substitute against the Czech Republic. Wolves beaten 1-0 by Arsenal in the FA Cup semi-final with Keane left on the bench by manager Mark McGhee. Wins rave reviews for man-of-the-match performance in his second appearance for the Republic in a friendly against Argentina. During the summer, helps his country win the European Youth Championship in Cyprus.

1999: Injury hinders second half of season and Wolves furious after Keane called up by the Republic for Under-20 World Championships in Nigeria.

Despite interest from Middlesbrough and Aston Villa, Keane starts the season with Wolves and scores only goal of the game in the opening match of Division One campaign at Manchester City.

With Wolves holding out for £6 million in face of £5.5 million offer from Aston Villa manager John Gregory, Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson quoted as saying he would only pay £500,000 for Keane.

Joins Coventry for £6 million in August to become most expensive teenager in the Premiership and scores twice on his debut as Derby are beaten at Highfield Road. Scores 12 goals for Coventry and takes his international tally to six goals from 16 games.

July 29th: Joins Inter Milan for £13 million.