Robbie Keane wins Major League Soccer's MVP award

Robbie Keane (centre) previously played for clubs such as Inter Milan, Liverpool and Tottenham

Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane has been named Major League Soccer's most valuable player.

The 34-year-old captained LA Galaxy to the Western Conference title, and his 20 goals in 33 games also helped the club reach Sunday's MLS Cup final against New England Revolution.

Seattle Sounders FC striker Obafemi Martins was second and Revolution midfielder Lee Nguyen third.

Keane joined Galaxy in 2011, linking up with David Beckham initially.

The Irishman has scored 61 goals and provided 41 assists in 100 MLS and play-off appearances, and led the side to MLS Cup titles in 2011 and 2012.

He says he hopes to play for "another four years" and added: "It is very simple for me because I love what I do.

Robbie Keane is going for a third MLS title in his four seasons in the USA

"When you love something, you look forward to waking up. When you hate something, you're not looking forward to going into work regardless of whether that's football or a nine-to-five job. If you don't love what you do then the battle is gone.

"The last couple of years, I've been struggling with an Achilles problems and after the operation a year ago, I was rehabbing every day for six weeks before pre-season.

"It's been a long year, but it's been worth it. I had been waking up in the mornings and I could hardly walk and it took me ages to get going in training. But since the operation, I feel great."

Keane's Galaxy come up against New England Revolution, who have former Wales international Andy Dorman in their squad, on Sunday.

The ex-St Mirren and Crystal Palace midfielder, 32, is in his second spell at the club.

"I was fortunate enough to be here before when we got to MLS Cup finals, and obviously this year it's nice to get back there," he said.

"It's definitely a place that the city deserves to be - the supporters, the organisation. The players and staff have managed to get us back to another cup final. Hopefully everyone can go out and enjoy it."