Kevin Keegan, who has died aged 75 on Monday, was one of football’s most charismatic and influential figures in a career of many chapters that took him from superstar player to elite manager.
While some may remember him best for his ill-fated reign as England manager, he will rightly be much more celebrated as a world-class player at Liverpool and Hamburg, captaining England, and shining latterly at Southampton and Newcastle United, before becoming arguably the most beloved figure in the Tyneside club’s history.
Keegan revived Newcastle’s fortunes as a player before carrying the Geordie nation with him on a thrilling ride as manager, first by taking the club back into the top flight, then delivering a magnificently entertaining team that challenged for the highest honours – even if they ultimately fell short.
His time at Newcastle will also be recalled for his infamous “I will love it if we beat them” TV outburst aimed at Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson as Newcastle’s 12-point lead in the 1995-96 title race evaporated – but the unconditional love the Geordies felt for Keegan was never diluted.
Keegan’s career was a reflection of himself.
He was hugely gifted, honest, decent, hard-working and emotional. There were highs and lows, but the positivity and vibrancy he brought made him a cherished figure.
