More tributes paid to Newcastle legend Kevin Keegan
Fans have begun to gather outside St James Park this evening, in the wake of the news that Newcastle United legend Kevin Keegan has died, aged 75.
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Fans have begun to gather outside St James Park this evening, in the wake of the news that Newcastle United legend Kevin Keegan has died, aged 75.
The Prince of Wales is among the famous names paying tribute to the former player, and two time Magpies manager.
In a personally signed message on social media, William, the former president of the Football Association (FA) and now its patron, said: “Incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin Keegan.
“A truly remarkable footballer and manager who inspired generations with his talent, passion and love of the game.
“Above all, he will be remembered as a kind and generous man.
“Our thoughts are with his family and all who knew him.”
Also paying tribute, former prime minister Tony Blair said:
“Kevin Keegan was an extraordinary talent as a player – huge skill combined with an outstanding commitment. And a great coach. But most of all, on and off the pitch, he had a fantastic spirit.
“Kevin inspired everyone he met, including me. He was just a thoroughly decent man with a strong sense of values and a belief, not only in the game of football, but also in Britain as a nation.
“From the first time I met him in the Newcastle changing room before a match in the 1990s, to the time he took me in hand as the leader of the opposition to teach me how to head the ball, to the social occasions later in life he was the same: an effervescent, never-give- up, irrepressible proud patriot of Britain.
“My deepest condolence to Jean and all his family.”
In a statement on social media, the club said:
"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history.
"Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters."
This post was re-shared by Newcastle icon Alan Shearer, who added this message:
"My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss".
In 1992, Keegan made his first step into management at Newcastle, leading them into the Premier League and to within touching distance of the 1995-96 title, but they missed out to Manchester United.
The North East club paid tribute to Keegan in a statement issued on Monday afternoon, describing him as “the beating heart of Newcastle for generations of supporters”.
The club added: “As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle could be.
“As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an entertainer.”
Keegan had revealed just last month he'd been diagnosed with stage four cancer
In a statement, his family say he was surrounded by his wife and daughters when he passed away.