Perhaps England's most underrated player, he rarely puts a foot wrong for club or country.
The talk has been about whether Sol Campbell or Gareth Southgate should partner Rio Ferdinand at centre-back.
But Keown has years of experience of playing in England's meanest defence behind him.
Just like club team-mate Tony Adams his game has come on leaps and bounds since Arsene Wenger's arrival at Highbury.
His regular involvement in Europe has also seen him become a far more cultured player.
But his key qualities of strength, determination and tactical awareness have never dulled.
Was only called into the squad for the Paraguay friendly at late notice after injuries to Campbell and Ugo Ehiogu.
He did his cause no harm there by keeping Bayern Munich striker Roque Santa Cruz quiet all night.