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Keane during the 1991 FAI Cup final. YouTube Screengrab
RIP

Ex-Galway United star Tommy Keane passes away after five-a-side match

FAI Chief Executive John Delaney has paid tribute to the 44-year-old.

FORMER GALWAY UNITED player Tommy Keane lost his life yesterday after collapsing during a charity five-a-side football tournament.

44-year-old Keane, who set up Johnny Glynn for Galway’s winner in the 1991 FAI Cup final during a man-of-the-match-performance and also had spells with Bournmouth and Colchester United, was brought to University Hospital Galway but was later pronounced dead.

He is survived by his wife Paula and son Tommy jnr.

FAI Chief Executive John Delaney said: “The death of Tommy Keane comes after the passing of two other well known and popular figures in Galway football, Noel Crowley and Eamonn Deacy, earlier this year.

“Tommy had actually played in a tournament in memory of Noel Crowley yesterday and the thoughts of everybody, at this sad time, are with his family, friends and all those involved in Galway football.”

Tommy Keane will always be remembered for the part he played in Galway United’s FAI Cup win in 1991,” said FAI President Paddy McCaul. ”He was a great player and news of his death has come as a great shock. On behalf of everybody in Irish football I would like to offer our sympathy to his wife, his son and the rest of his family and friends.”

National League Executive Committee Chairman Eamonn Naughton added: “As a Galway man I was extremely saddened to hear of the untimely death of Tommy Keane.

“He was one of the best players ever to emerge from Galway and his role in Galway United’s 1991 FAI Cup final victory has ensured that he will never be forgotten by those involved in football. He and his family are in our prayers.”

Airtricity League Director Fran Gavin said: “Tommy Keane gave great service to Galway United and was one of the best players of his generation. Everybody remembers the role he played in the 1991 FAI Cup victory where he scored in every round up to the final and then set up Johnny Glynn for the only goal of the final.

“News of his passing at such a young age has come as a great shock to everybody involved in the League and we send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, son, family and friends.”

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