Fans of Newcastle United gathered outside St James' Park to pay tribute to Kevin Keegan, a revered figure in football who died this week at the age of 75. The area surrounding the stadium was adorned with a vast collection of floral bouquets, Newcastle United shirts, and a large banner celebrating Keegan, often referred to as 'The Messiah' by supporters.
Keegan's passing followed a battle with stage four cancer, his diagnosis having been revealed in January. His family announced his death on Monday, stating it was with 'immense sadness.'
The tributes came as Newcastle played their first fixture since Keegan's death, a 1-1 draw away against Gateshead on Saturday. Before the match, the team observed a minute's silence in memory of the player known affectionately as 'The Mighty Mouse.' Many supporters were seen laying flowers, shirts, and scarves around the stadium grounds.
Newcastle United's management is reportedly in discussions with Liverpool, their first opponent of the new season, to ensure Keegan's memory is appropriately marked before the game. Additionally, during the away match against Bristol City on Wednesday, Keegan's image will be displayed on stadium screens in the seventh minute, a nod to his iconic shirt number. Fans have been encouraged to applaud during this moment. Similar tributes are planned for matches on August 15 and 16, when the men's team faces Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg, and the women's team plays Inter Milan.
Discussions are also underway regarding a potential statue outside the stadium to honor the football icon, with some fans suggesting the East Stand should be renamed in his memory.
Keegan, who won the Ballon d'Or in 1978 and 1979, had a distinguished playing career. He made 230 appearances and scored 68 goals for Liverpool between 1971 and 1977, winning three First Division titles and a European Cup. He later played for Hamburger SV and Southampton before joining Newcastle.
His managerial career included two spells at Newcastle, guiding them to promotion to the Premier League in 1993. One of his most memorable managerial moments was his infamous assertion in 1996 that he would 'love it if we beat' Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United.
Keegan also represented England 63 times, scoring 21 goals, and later managed the national team from 1999 to 2000. His coaching career also saw him manage Fulham and Manchester City, securing promotion for the latter.
Figures across the football world shared their grief. Former Newcastle captain Alan Shearer called Keegan his 'Hero. My manager. My friend.' Ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher described Keegan as 'One of the greatest players this country has ever produced,' noting his role in Liverpool's history. Prince William expressed his sadness, remembering Keegan as a 'remarkable footballer and manager who inspired generations' and a 'kind and generous man.' Trevor Brooking, a former teammate, recalled their strong on-field understanding and Keegan's 'bubbly character.' David Beckham also posted a tribute, remembering Keegan as 'very kind.'
Newcastle United released a statement calling Keegan 'one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history,' adding he was 'the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.' Liverpool shared that they 'mourn his loss,' stating his 'indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history.'