Gordon Strachan's decision to give Robbie Keane an extra rest in the summer seems to have paid off. The Republic of Ireland striker returned to Coventry last week and has looked razor sharp in training.

Keane was involved in Ireland's US Cup trip and because of this Strachan decided that he would need extra time off to take a holiday. It looked as if he had lost his edge towards the end of the last campaign but now he seems fitter than ever.

The 19-year-old striker has been leading the pack in training in both long distance and sprint running - which is no mean feat with the likes of Steve Froggatt at the club.

Strachan believes that Keane's impact this season will be a crucial factor in Coventry's fortunes. The wily Scot signed Robbie for his raw talent but he will be hoping that the Dubliner will take the Premiership by storm this season.

Robbie is a gem and if he is able to keep injury-free for the season he could well be fighting it out for top scorer in the League. The Coventry fans already know what Strachan has unearthed but the rest of the League might also have to sit up and take notice of the Tallaght youngster.