Robbie Keane could be Aston Villa loan target

Robbie Keane today emerged as a potential loan target for Villa after manager Paul Lambert was coy when asked about the chance of a return in January.

The ex-Wolves striker spent a successful two-month stint at the claret and blues last season where he scored three goals in seven appearances, including two in a 3-2 in over his former club at Molineux.

Lambert's policy has been to recruit young players, mainly from outside of the Premier League, but he would not rule out a move for an experienced player like the LA Galaxy striker.

"I've not seen that story so I don't know. I don't know the situation there at all," said Lambert, on reports which linked the Ireland international with a second loan spell at Villa.

"When January gets closer I'll start to think about things. Robbie Keane is a brilliant player and has been over the years.

"Is it something I would go for? I am not sure because the team is the most important thing for me. If they fit in and have the desire to do it, and want to do it, and fit in with the group then I will look at it.

"Signing an experienced player is not something I'll turn away from. If they have got the right attitude to go and do it, and they fit into the group, then I'd look at that."

Lambert also admitted his side's victory over Manchester City in September in the League Cup will count for very little when they face the Premier League champions at the Etihad Stadium.

"It will give them a bit of belief but it is a completely different game. It will be different personnel that will play," said Lambert.

"I know how hard it is going to be but we are playing well enough to cause them trouble. The club is flooded with star players.

"We've been up there before and won and the confidence is high. That's a good thing. The lads are confident they can go up there and do well."