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Keane hoping to provide West Ham boost

Robbie Keane is ready to help West Ham in their bid to stay up © Getty Images

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Robbie Keane believes he has 'nothing to lose' at West Ham and hopes his character can lift the dressing room and help the club avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The Republic of Ireland international has moved on loan from Tottenham on the end of the season, with the Hammers to make the switch permanent if they avoid the drop to the Championship. Keane believes that is something Avram Grant's side should be able to achieve.

"It's a good opportunity for me," Keane said. "I don't think I've really got anything to lose. We're at the bottom of the table so the only thing to do is move up the table. Hopefully I can help them do that and avoid relegation."

The 30-year-old is known as a positive influence in the dressing room wherever he goes, and hopes he will be able to boost morale at Upton Park - although from his early experiences with the squad he believes there isn't a problem in that regard.

"I can only do what I usually do - which is just be myself," Keane said. "If other people say I bring something to the dressing then great. I'm here to help the team on the pitch and hopefully I can do that. If that's helping the team off the pitch also with the character I have then that would be great.

"It's [the atmosphere] been fine, it's very similar to what it would be at Tottenham or any other club. There are good lads in there, good characters - some top quality players too. I haven't found anything different to Tottenham."

Previously linked with a switch to Birmingham, Keane acknowledged other clubs had been interested in his signature but it was West Ham who made a firm offer.

"There was [interest from other teams], but you can only go to a club that actually goes in for you," he noted.

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