Pregnant Claudine Keane: 'We're excited but Robbie Jnr says it's been 'a long time coming'
Claudine Keane and her son Robert, six years, arrive for a Special Olympics Ireland reception to celebrate the Special Olympics World Summer Games. The L.A. Hotel Downtown, Figueroa St, Los Angeles, United States
IRELAND soccer star Robbie Keane and his wife Claudine have been "overwhelmed" by the reaction to news they are expecting a second child, saying it's "like Christmas 100 times over".
The couple announced on Saturday that Robert Jnr (6) is to get a sibling and Claudine says he told her it's "been a long time coming".
"We're so excited. It's amazing news and obviously something that Robert has wanted for a long time - a sibling," she told the Herald, in her first interview since breaking the news.
"I wonder what it'll be like when we have to split our attention between two kids. That will be interesting, but so far it's the most exciting thing in the world," she said.
The couple, who married in 2008, have now spent six years in America where Robbie plays for LA Galaxy.
The 31-year-old Malahide woman says she's loving life in LA at the moment.
TOGETHER
"Everything is coming together really well. The last couple of games Rob scored two hat-tricks and he's been chosen for the MLS All-Star game so everything is really good.
"I don't want to jinx myself at the moment so hopefully it continues that way," she said.
"It's gone really fast. Initially I thought we'd only be here for two, maybe three years but contracts just kept getting a bit longer which is a good reflection on Rob's form and we're thankful that we're able to stay this long," Claudine said.
"It's a second home. Ireland is definitely home number one and where our hearts are."
The couple bought a house in Dublin two years ago and spend much of the off-season in Ireland where they ultimately plan to settle.
"That would be the plan long-term but it just depends what comes Rob's way in terms of coaching or management. Whatever pans out we'll have to follow," she said.
Robbie, who is reported to earn €70,000-a-week playing for LA Galaxy, said that he sees himself in the city of angels for "a good few years" yet.
"It's a good lifestyle. It's very relaxed for the family. Lots to do outdoors, especially with my son. He likes going to the beach," he said.
Asked about her decision to reveal the pregnancy by publishing a video of Robbie Jnr's reaction online, Claudine said the clip was "definitely too good not to share".
"It was the priceless, innocent reaction from a six-year-old."
Claudine said both her family and Robbie's family are "over the moon" at their news.
The couple are ambassadors for the Special Olympics Ireland team.
CEREMONY
Claudine said it was "an amazing honour" to be alongside them in LA's Memorial Coliseum at the opening ceremony on Saturday night.
Robbie was unable to attend due to club commitments.
"The whole year has been an incredible experience, getting to know the volunteers, the staff and the people behind the scenes as well as the athletes.
"It's just been overwhelming for me and Rob and something we've really enjoyed being a part of," Claudine added.