Tributes pour in for Kevin Keegan, celebrated as a football great
Tributes have been shared for Kevin Keegan, who passed away at the age of 75. The former Newcastle United manager and player was remembered by figures across football, including Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Kenny Dalglish, and Alan Shearer.
Sir Alex Ferguson, former manager of Manchester United, expressed his respect for Keegan, noting the impact he had during his managerial tenure at Newcastle. Ferguson highlighted Keegan’s ability to revitalise the club and bring enthusiasm to its supporters. He also mentioned the quality players Keegan brought to Newcastle, such as David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla, and Philippe Albert, which significantly strengthened the team.
During Keegan’s first period as Magpies boss from 1992 to 1997, he led the club to promotion to the Premier League in 1992-93. They later finished as runners-up to Manchester United three years later. Ferguson recalled their competitive rivalry, including Keegan’s famous “I will love it if we beat them” comment, but also noted that any animosity was short-lived, with the two sharing a friendly encounter at Wentworth Golf Club shortly after the 1996 season concluded.
A legacy of passion and leadership
Keegan’s playing career was also celebrated, with spells at clubs including Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle. During his six-year period at Liverpool from 1971 to 1977, he secured three league titles, the European Cup, and two Uefa Cups. He was also part of the team that won Liverpool’s first European trophy, the UEFA Cup in 1973. His final appearance for Liverpool saw the team defeat Borussia Monchengladbach 3-1 in Rome in 1977 to win their first European Cup.
He later helped Hamburg win the Bundesliga and received back-to-back Ballons d’Or in 1978 and 1979, making him one of only four English players to have achieved this award. As a manager, Keegan also led Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team.
Sir Kenny Dalglish, who succeeded Keegan at Liverpool in 1977, described him as “one of the very best players of his generation” and a “genuine gentleman.” Dalglish praised Keegan’s exceptional achievements on the pitch and his ability to bring belief and excitement to Newcastle United as a manager. “Football has lost one of its true greats,” Dalglish stated.
Former Liverpool and England teammate Phil Thompson referred to Keegan as the “best of all the people I have known in football and in sport,” highlighting his humility and inspirational presence. David Fairclough, another former Liverpool forward, recalled looking up to Keegan as a young player and being inspired by his approach to the game.
Impact on Newcastle and beyond
Alan Shearer, whom Keegan signed for Newcastle in 1996 for a then-world record fee, called him “My Hero. My manager. My friend.” Shearer expressed his honour at having known Keegan and his sadness at the loss.
Newcastle United’s current manager, Eddie Howe, also paid tribute, noting Keegan’s role as an “inspiration” and a “friend whose guidance and support meant a great deal in recent years.” Howe highlighted Keegan’s warmth, generosity, and willingness to share his wisdom, which made him feel welcome at the club.
Fans gathered at St James’ Park to lay flowers and pay their respects, with former Newcastle player Shola Ameobi also seen at the stadium. Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson described the spontaneous outpouring of tributes as “incredible.”
Keegan’s connection to Newcastle began as a player in the 1982-83 season, helping the club achieve promotion. Despite being from Yorkshire, he felt a strong bond with the city, stating it “felt like coming home” when he first signed for the Magpies. His family had deep roots in the area, with his grandfather, Frank, a County Durham miner and a hero of the West Stanley Pit Disaster of 1909.
Shaun Dalton, a ballboy at Keegan’s debut in 1982, described him as “an absolute legend of this city” and recounted jumping on his back after Keegan scored. John Anderson, a former player and co-commentator for BBC Radio Newcastle, remembered Keegan’s humble nature and his ability to make everyone feel comfortable.
Lee Clark, who played under Keegan in the 1990s, described him as a “hero” and a “father figure,” recalling how Keegan would advise him on his car choices. Keegan scored 21 goals in 63 games for England between 1972 and 1982, and managed the national team from February 1999 until October 2000.
Fans like Brad at St James’ Park expressed that no amount of tribute would be enough for Keegan, who took the club “from nowhere to the brink.” Malcolm, another fan, highlighted Keegan’s dedication to the community, recalling how he would stay until the early hours of the morning to meet every person at social club events.
Keegan’s passing was announced on Monday following treatment for cancer.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Amelia Stockwell is a Sports Reporter at News GB. She covered two Commonwealth Games for a national outlet. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of York and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in York, she runs with a local club and follows county cricket. “The quiet stories often matter most by the end of the season.”
