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ESPN announced Wednesday that reigning MVP, LA Galaxy captain, Irish national team captain, Special Olympics Ambassador, vocal same-sex marriage supporter, and second cousin to Morrissey, Robbie Keane has been nominated for the network's awards show "The ESPY's". For those unfamiliar with the event, it is one part lackluster comedy hour, one part NFL/NBA replays, and one part begrudging awards ceremony.
It has been a tough season for the Irish striker, being sidelined due to injury for most of the season and more recently had tragedy hit his family back in Ireland. This nomination should come as a breath of fresh air at what all Galaxy fans are hoping is the turning point of the season.
Keane is nominated for the 'Best MLS Player' award along with Golden Boot winner Bradley Wright-Phillips, MVP runner-up Obafemi Martins, and youngster Lee Nguyen who had a career year and led the (lovable losers) New England Revolution to the MLS cup.
Keane could be the third LA Galaxy player to win the award since its inception in 2006- Landon Donovan has won it five times and David Beckham twice. Moreover, only players from either the LA Galaxy or the NY Redbulls have ever won the award, with both teams being represented in this year's nominations.
Last year's performance was the best in the four years Keane has been with the team, and that is a meaningful statement considering he has won three championships in those years. He had career highs in almost all categories, critical assists throughout the season, game winning goals and another championship for the trophy case. It would take a strong argument to not give him the ESPY award.
At any rate, stranger things have happened and I will be eagerly tuned in to the Joel McHale hosted event July 15th.