The Manchester Utd captain wins another Texaco award for his immense contribution to the Republic of Ireland's qualification for the World Cup finals next summer and his role in leading Manchester United to their seventh Premiership title.

In the critical World Cup qualifying games at Lansdowne Road against Portugal and Holland, Keane was a remorseless driving force for the Republic. He capped an outstanding individual display against the Portugese with a priceless goal and then led Mick McCarthy's side in inimitable fashion to their superb 1-0 win over Holland in September.

Fortunes may have changed at Old Trafford in recent months, but Keane's consistent level of performance for Manchester United throughout the year helped to deliver another league title and also cover up many of the recent problems at the club.