Tributes to a Football Icon
Sir Alex Ferguson, the former Manchester United manager, has paid tribute to Kevin Keegan, describing him as someone who “carried the love of the game on his sleeve.” Keegan’s passing was announced on Monday, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across the football world. Ferguson reflected on their managerial rivalry, particularly highlighting Keegan’s significant impact during his time as manager of Newcastle United.
Ferguson expressed his profound respect for Keegan, recalling the numerous duels their teams had. He particularly praised the work Keegan did at Newcastle, noting it as “fantastic.” Keegan’s initial tenure as the Magpies boss spanned from 1992 to 1997. During this period, he successfully guided the club to promotion to the Premier League in the 1992-93 season. Three years later, Newcastle finished as runners-up to Ferguson’s United side.
Ferguson commented that Keegan “re-energised that club” and instilled an enthusiasm and fanaticism that resonated with the supporters. He also credited Keegan with bringing three notable players—David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla, and Philippe Albert—to the club, which, according to Ferguson, added a touch of class to the team. The challenges posed by Newcastle during that era were significant for United.
The former Manchester United manager also recalled a famous incident where Keegan declared, “I will love it if we beat them,” in a televised outburst directed at Ferguson. This occurred as Newcastle relinquished a 12-point lead, ultimately losing the title to United in 1996. The comment followed Ferguson’s questioning of whether Leeds and Nottingham Forest would exert the same effort against Newcastle as they would against Manchester United.
Despite the on-field rivalry, Ferguson recounted a meeting with Keegan at Wentworth Golf Club weeks after the season concluded, where they spent time together without animosity. Ferguson noted Keegan’s admirable quality of holding no grudges, stating, “That was a fantastic quality he had and we had a great night.”
A Legacy of Friendship and Inspiration
Beyond his managerial career, Keegan’s stellar playing career included stints at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle. During a six-year spell at Liverpool from 1971 to 1977, he secured three league titles, the European Cup, two Uefa Cups, and the FA Cup. He also helped Hamburg win the Bundesliga and earned consecutive Ballons d’Or in 1978 and 1979, making him one of only four English players to achieve this honour.
As a manager, Keegan also led Fulham and Manchester City, in addition to his roles with England and Newcastle. He notably signed Alan Shearer for Newcastle in 1996 for a world-record fee. Shearer, who later captained England under Keegan, described him as a friend and someone who loved football and Newcastle above all else. Shearer expressed his honour in knowing Keegan and stated, “We will miss you Kevin.”
Eddie Howe, the current manager of Newcastle United, contacted Keegan upon his appointment in 2021. Howe described Keegan as an inspiration and a friend whose guidance and support were invaluable. He highlighted Keegan’s warmth and generosity, noting that Keegan made him feel welcome and understood the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. Howe added that Keegan was always willing to share his wisdom and offer encouragement.
Sir Kenny Dalglish, a former Scotland and Liverpool forward, hailed Keegan as “one of the very best players of his generation” who wore Liverpool’s number seven shirt with great distinction. Dalglish, who succeeded Keegan at Liverpool in 1977 and later as Newcastle manager, described him as an exceptional player and a wonderful, genuine gentleman. He noted that Keegan provided many people with wonderful memories and that his teams played in a style supporters loved.
Phil Thompson, a former England and Liverpool team-mate, called Keegan the “best of all the people I have known in football and in sport,” emphasising his humility. Thompson recalled Keegan’s arrival at Liverpool in 1971 as a “superhero” and a “revelation.” David Fairclough, another former Liverpool forward, who debuted in 1975, looked up to Keegan and adopted his approach, recalling how Keegan’s acknowledgement as a young player left a lasting impression.
Keegan also maintained a close friendship with Neil ‘Nello’ Baldwin, who founded the Neil Baldwin Football Club. Keegan agreed to become the club’s president, a role he embraced with humility. Baldwin recounted Keegan sending him a letter and an England rosette after his mother’s passing. Malcolm Clarke, former chair of the Football Supporters Association, noted that Keegan wrote a letter for Baldwin’s testimonial game, stating his honour in being president of Baldwin’s club. Clarke also mentioned Keegan’s invitations to Baldwin to attend England matches at Wembley, highlighting the manager’s dedication.
Keegan’s generosity was further exemplified when he unveiled the permanent memorial to football legend Sir Stanley Matthews at Stoke’s stadium in 2001 without requesting a fee. Angela Smith, a former football summariser, who was present at the event, noted that Keegan felt it was a massive honour to participate and spent considerable time signing autographs and engaging with fans.
Keegan scored 21 goals in appearances for England between 1972 and 1982, and managed the national team from February 1999 to October 2000.
The news of Keegan’s death on Monday has brought the football community together, with thousands sharing memories of the legendary player and manager on social media. Former Newcastle United players and staff have paid tribute, and hundreds of supporters have visited St. James’ Park to lay flowers and scarves in his honour. A memory book will be available at the club’s stadium, at the Box Office, for supporters to offer their condolences in person, daily between 8am and 8pm.
Source: bbc.co.uk