ROBBIE KEANE HAS been named as the new captain of the Los Angeles Galaxy.

The Dubliner, who joined the club in 2011 after the end of his second spell with Tottenham, takes over from Landon Donovan for the upcoming MLS season.

Manager Bruce Arena confirmed the news at the unveiling of the club’s new second strip.

“Robbie Keane will be our captain to start the season, and he will be our captain this season,” Arena told reporters.

“(Keane is) a fabulous choice as captain. He’s a quality player, he’s a quality leader, so Robbie’s prepared to lead this team.”

Donovan – expected back from a self-imposed break from the game late in March – had been captain since taking over from David Beckham at the end of the 2008 season, but the honour now falls to Keane.

The 32-year-old scored 22 goals in his first full season in the MLS, also contributing eight assists, and Ireland’s record goalscorer signed a long-term extension to his deal at the Home Depot Center in January.

The Galaxy begin their MLS campaign when they host the Chicago Fire on Sunday.