Newcastle United and Liverpool fans, along with players from both sides, united in a poignant tribute to former player and manager Kevin Keegan before their Premier League match. The ceremony took place on the opening weekend of the season, honoring a figure deeply influential in the history of both clubs.
As players warmed up, both Newcastle and Liverpool players wore "Keegan 7" on the back of their shirts. A mosaic, constructed from over 500 shirts left outside St James' Park following Keegan's passing, was unfurled in the center circle. This was followed by a tribute video displayed on the big screen.
The supporters' group Wor Flags orchestrated a large-scale display that encompassed every seat in the stadium, including those occupied by Liverpool supporters. The Leazes End displayed "Keegan 7," while the East Stand featured a tifo of "King Kev." The Gallowgate End showcased a memorable quote attributed to Keegan, often cited as being instrumental in transforming Newcastle's football club: "I want people to dream about their football club. They should. We should all be dreamers at heart. Some people are the opposite and say, 'We can't do that'. But when you ask them why, they can't give a reason. Well, I say, 'Why not?'"
Prior to the match, the teams and the crowd observed an emotional minute's applause, during which "one Kevin Keegan" was chanted from the stands. The tributes reflected Keegan's significant impact as both a player and manager, particularly during his transformative period at Newcastle United in the 1990s.