Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to his former rival, Kevin Keegan, following Keegan’s passing. Ferguson described Keegan as someone who “carried the love of the game on his sleeve” and expressed his utmost respect for him.
Keegan’s death at the age of 75 was announced on Monday. Ferguson reflected on their managerial encounters, particularly highlighting Keegan’s impact during his time as manager of Newcastle United.
Keegan’s Impact at Newcastle
Ferguson recalled the significant challenge Newcastle posed to Manchester United during Keegan’s tenure. Keegan’s first period as the Magpies‘ boss was from 1992 to 1997. He led the club to promotion to the Premier League in 1992-93, and they later finished as runners-up to United three years later.
Ferguson praised Keegan for revitalising the club, stating that he “re-energised that club and he brought that enthusiasm and fanaticism that great supporters can give.” He also noted Keegan’s role in bringing players such as David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla, and Philippe Albert to the club, which Ferguson believed added class to the team and contributed to what he considered Newcastle‘s best-ever team.
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. This outburst occurred as Newcastle, having held a 12-point lead, ultimately lost the title to Manchester United.
Despite the intense rivalry, Ferguson recounted a meeting with Keegan at Wentworth Golf Club weeks after the 1996 season concluded, where they spent time together without animosity. Ferguson admired Keegan’s quality of holding no grudges, stating, “That was a fantastic quality he had and we had a great night.”
A Legacy of Footballing Greatness
Ferguson joined numerous others in paying tribute to Keegan, who was a former England captain and manager. Keegan enjoyed a distinguished playing career, 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, two Uefa Cups, and the FA Cup. He also 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 won the award.
As a manager, Keegan also led Fulham and Manchester City, in addition to his roles with England and Newcastle. He signed Alan Shearer for Newcastle in 1996 and managed England when Shearer was captaining the national side.
Alan Shearer described Keegan as a friend, highlighting his passion, energy, and friendship. Shearer stated, “He loved football and he loved Newcastle more than anything.”
Newcastle United‘s current manager, Eddie Howe, contacted Keegan upon his appointment in 2021. Howe expressed gratitude for Keegan’s guidance and support, noting his warmth and generosity. Howe added that Keegan understood the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United and was always willing to share his wisdom and encouragement.
Former Scotland and Liverpool forward Sir Kenny Dalglish 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, described him as a wonderful person and a true 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,” emphasising his humility. Thompson recalled Keegan’s arrival at Liverpool in 1971, describing him as a “superhero” and a revelation.
David Fairclough, who made his Liverpool debut in 1975, looked up to Keegan and adopted his approach. Fairclough remembered telling friends about his interactions with Keegan, who had noticed him as a young apprentice. Keegan scored 21 goals for England between 1972 and 1982, and managed the national team from February 1999 until October 2000.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
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As News-GB's Sports Reporter, Megan Sinclair reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name interviewing rising British talent. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Edinburgh and completed an NCTJ diploma. Megan lives in Edinburgh, where she plays club tennis and follows track athletics. “Give the athletes room and the story tells itself.”