Sir Alex Ferguson, the former Manchester United manager, has paid tribute to his former rival, Kevin Keegan, following Keegan’s death at the age of 75. Ferguson stated that Keegan “carried the love of the game on his sleeve” and expressed his respect for the impact Keegan made, particularly during his time as manager of Newcastle United.
Keegan’s death was announced on Monday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the football world. Ferguson recalled their managerial duels, highlighting the “fantastic” job Keegan did at Newcastle.
Keegan’s Impact at Newcastle
Keegan’s initial tenure as Magpies boss spanned from 1992 to 1997. During this period, he guided the club to promotion to the Premier League in 1992-93. Three years later, Newcastle finished as runners-up to Ferguson’s Manchester United in the league.
Ferguson noted that Keegan “re-energised that club” and brought an enthusiasm that resonated with supporters. He also credited Keegan with bringing in players such as David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla, and Philippe Albert, who added a touch of class to the team. Ferguson described the challenges posed by Newcastle during that era as “huge.”
The period under Keegan at Newcastle was characterised by emotion and excitement, with Ferguson suggesting that the team during that time was perhaps Newcastle’s best ever. The rivalry between Ferguson and Keegan included a memorable moment in 1996 when Keegan famously declared, “I will love it if we beat them,” in response to Ferguson’s comments.
Despite the intense rivalry, Ferguson recalled a friendly encounter with Keegan at Wentworth Golf Club. Alan Shearer, who was signed by Keegan for a world record fee in 1996, described him as his hero, manager, and friend, stating, “He loved football and he loved Newcastle more than anything.”
Newcastle United’s current manager, Eddie Howe, also shared his appreciation for Keegan, calling him an “inspiration” and a friend whose guidance was invaluable. Howe mentioned that Keegan showed him incredible warmth and generosity, and was always willing to share his wisdom and offer encouragement.
A Legendary Playing Career and Tributes
Keegan’s playing career was distinguished, with spells at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle. During his six years at Liverpool from 1971 to 1977, he secured three league titles, the European Cup, and two Uefa Cups, along with an FA Cup.
He was a key part of the team that won Liverpool’s first European trophy, the UEFA Cup in 1973. His final appearance for the club saw Liverpool defeat Borussia Monchengladbach 3-1 in Rome in 1977 to lift their maiden European Cup. After moving to Hamburg, Keegan won the Bundesliga and earned back-to-back Ballons d’Or in 1978 and 1979, making him one of only four English players to have received the award.
Sir Kenny Dalglish, who succeeded Keegan at Liverpool, described him as “one of the very best players of his generation” and a “genuine gentleman.” Dalglish highlighted Keegan’s exceptional achievements on the pitch and his qualities as a person. He added that Keegan’s teams played in a way that supporters loved to watch, and that “Football has lost one of its true greats.”
Former Liverpool and England team-mate Phil Thompson referred to Keegan as the “best of all the people I have known in football and in sport,” praising his humility and inspirational presence. David Fairclough, who made his first-team debut for Liverpool in 1975, recalled looking up to Keegan and adopting his style.
As a manager, Keegan also led Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team from February 1999 until October 2000. Fans in Newcastle have laid flowers at St James’ Park to pay their respects, with former Newcastle player Shola Ameobi also seen at the stadium. Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson described the spontaneous tribute as “incredible.”
Keegan first arrived at Newcastle as a player at the start of the 1982-83 season, helping the club secure promotion to the First Division. He retired at the end of the subsequent season, famously departing St James’ Park in a helicopter after his testimonial match. Despite being from Yorkshire, Keegan stated that signing for the Magpies felt like “coming home,” given his family’s deep roots in the area, including his grandfather, Frank, a County Durham miner.
Shaun Dalton, a ballboy at Keegan’s debut in 1982, described him as “an absolute legend of this city.” John Anderson, a co-commentator for BBC Radio Newcastle and former player, noted Keegan’s humble nature and ability to connect with everyone. Lee Clark, who played under Keegan in the 1990s, expressed his heartbreak, calling Keegan a hero, manager, and a father figure.
Keegan scored 21 goals for England between 1972 and 1982.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
As News-GB.org's Sports Reporter, Eleanor Vance reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name on long-form athlete profiles. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Bath and completed an NCTJ diploma. Eleanor lives in Bath, where she swims competitively and follows British athletics. “A profile is only as good as the questions behind it.”