Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to his former rival, Kevin Keegan, following Keegan’s passing on Monday. Ferguson stated that Keegan “carried the love of the game on his sleeve” and praised his impact during his time as manager of Newcastle United.
Ferguson, whose team competed against Newcastle for the Premier League title in 1995-96, expressed his respect for Keegan. He highlighted the work Keegan did at Newcastle as “fantastic,” noting their many duels during that period.
Keegan’s Influence at Newcastle
Keegan’s initial tenure as Magpies boss spanned from 1992 to 1997. During this time, he guided the club to promotion to the Premier League in 1992-93. Three years later, Newcastle finished as runners-up to Manchester United.
Ferguson credited Keegan with revitalising the club, bringing enthusiasm and fanaticism that resonated with supporters. He also mentioned Keegan’s role in bringing players such as David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla, and Philippe Albert to the club, which he felt added a certain class to the team.
The period at Newcastle under Keegan was characterised by emotion and excitement, according to Ferguson. He believed that the addition of these players contributed to what he considered a strong team for Newcastle.
One notable moment from their rivalry was Keegan’s “I will love it if we beat them” comment, made after Ferguson questioned the effort other teams might put in against Newcastle compared to Manchester United. Ferguson recalled meeting Keegan at Wentworth Golf Club shortly after that season, noting that Keegan held no grudges, a quality he greatly respected.
Tributes from the Football Community
Ferguson joined numerous others in paying respects to Keegan, who was a former England captain and manager. Keegan had a distinguished playing career, including spells at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle.
During his time 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 received consecutive 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 England, in addition to Newcastle. He notably signed Alan Shearer for Newcastle in 1996 for a world record fee. Shearer, who captained England under Keegan, described him as a friend and someone who loved football and Newcastle above all else.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle United’s current manager, contacted Keegan after his appointment in 2021. Howe described Keegan as an inspiration and a friend whose guidance was invaluable. He noted Keegan’s warmth and generosity, and his willingness to share his wisdom and offer encouragement.
Sir Kenny Dalglish, former Scotland and Liverpool forward, remembered Keegan as “one of the very best players of his generation” who wore Liverpool’s number seven shirt with distinction. Dalglish, who replaced Keegan at Liverpool in 1977 and later succeeded him as Newcastle manager, highlighted Keegan’s exceptional achievements on the pitch and his character as a gentleman.
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.” Thompson praised Keegan’s humility and described him as a “superhero” and a “revelation” when he joined Liverpool in 1971.
David Fairclough, another former Liverpool forward, made his first-team debut in 1975 and looked up to Keegan, adopting his style of play. Fairclough recalled being noticed by Keegan as a young player, an experience that impressed his friends.
Keegan scored 21 goals for England between 1972 and 1982, and managed the national team from February 1999 until October 2000.
Community Response and Condolences
The news of Keegan’s passing has brought the football community together, with many sharing memories on social media. Former Newcastle United players and staff have paid tribute to the club legend. Supporters have also visited St. James’ Park to leave flowers and scarves in his honour.
A memory book is now available at the club’s stadium, located at the Box Office, for supporters to offer their condolences in person. It will be accessible daily between 8am and 8pm, including weekends. For those unable to attend St. James’ Park, an online platform is also available to submit messages, which will be shared on the club’s website in the coming days.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
