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Republic of Ireland international Robbie Keane insists he is staying at Leeds United.

Keane has been linked with moves to Sunderland and Tottenham during a summer of uncertainty.

But the �9m-rated striker is keen to prove himself to new Leeds manager Terry Venables.

"The interest is always flattering, but I'm happy at Leeds," he said.

Keane was one of several Leeds players linked with a move away from Elland Road when the club were desperate to ease their debts.

I just want to stay

Robbie Keane

But the �30m sale of Rio Ferdinand has eased the pressure on new boss Venables.

"I have said no to Sunderland so, as far as I'm concerned, that's over now," Keane said.

"Everyone knows that the club needed money. Maybe that situation has changed now Rio has gone, maybe it hasn't.

"I just want to stay, and that's no snub to Peter Reid whom I respect as a great manager."

Keane's decision may also put paid to rumours linking Leeds with a move for Feyenoord's Australian international Brett Emerton.

Feyenoord's highly-rated midfielder Brett Emerton
Brett Emerton has been linked with a move to Leeds
Most of the treasure chest from the Ferdinand sale is earmarked to pay off Leeds' crippling debts but Venables has been given the green light to spend.

Leeds are reported to be lining up an �8m bid for the midfielder, but Feyenoord are likely to want nearer �10m for the 23-year-old.

Venables has also been linked with moves for Liverpool midfielder Nick Barmby and Tottenham's Darren Anderton, who both played international football under the former England manager.

But any move for Anderton may have hinged on Keane moving in the opposite direction.


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