A tribute to Kevin Keegan

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A legendary footballer and a legendary man

This is our tribute 

Author | Anthony Gates

Kevin Keegan, who has died at the age of 75, was one of football's most charismatic and influential figures, enjoying a remarkable career that took him from global playing star to one of the game's leading managers.

Although some will remember him for his difficult spell as England manager, he will be far more fondly recalled as a world-class footballer with Liverpool and Hamburg, as England captain, and for his later playing years at Southampton and Newcastle United. It was on Tyneside, however, where he became one of the club's most adored figures.

Watch | A wholesome video posted by Newcastle United 

Keegan helped revive Newcastle's fortunes as a player before inspiring the club again from the dugout. He guided them back to the top flight and built a thrilling side that challenged for the biggest prizes, even if the ultimate success proved just beyond their reach.

His time at Newcastle will also be remembered for his unforgettable "I will love it if we beat them" television outburst directed at Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, delivered as the club's 12-point lead in the 1995-96 title race slipped away. Even so, the affection Newcastle supporters held for Keegan never wavered.

Keegan's career reflected his personality.

He was immensely talented, honest, hard-working and deeply emotional. There were moments of triumph and disappointment, but his infectious enthusiasm and unwavering positivity ensured he remained one of football's most cherished figures.

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