John Keane played for Exeter City during the 1936/37 season. He joined the club from Falkirk and later played for Gateshead before returning to Yoker Athletic where he started his career. 

Having played for Clydebank Corinthians and Yoker Athletic, John was given a senior chance when signing for Kilmarnock. After subsequently leaving the Ayrshire club, and having a trial for Falkirk, he agreed terms with Exeter City in the summer of 1936.

John’s first league appearance for the Grecians came in the tenth game of the season at Aldershot in October 1936. Grabbing his opportunity, he enjoyed a run of a dozen consecutive games which included a goal in the draw at Watford on 7 November 1936.

Dropping out of the team just after Christmas, John only played once more in the league for City in the game at Gillingham in February. He was released at the end of the season and signed for Gateshead before later returning to Yoker Athletic.