Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic and charismatic figures in the history of British football, has died at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer.
A two-time European Footballer of the Year (Ballon d’Or winner in 1978 and 1979), Keegan was a global superstar whose electric style of play, infectious enthusiasm, and famous perm defined an era of English sports culture.
He is survived by his wife, Jean, and his two daughters, with Gosforth-based SkySports Presenter Pete Graves he said “I don’t regret it even now.”
He had a unique relationship with the club’s supporters, became renowned for signing autographs for hours after training on the public grounds of Maiden Castle in Durham and even addressed fans’ concerns over the sale of Andy Cole on the steps of St. James’ Park.
He later went on to manage Fulham, Manchester City, and of course, the England national team. He announced his retirement from the game in 2005 and worked at the ‘Soccer Circus football school’ in Glasgow.
A man of constant surprises, Keegan was persuaded to return to manage Newcastle United in January 2008, sparking scenes of jubilation across the city. After a tough start, he recorded wins over Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland, maintaining his perfect record over the club’s local rivals in the Tyne-Wear derby, and putting Newcastle on top of the league’s form chart.
However, rumours of tension with owner Mike Ashley and Director of Football Dennis Wise grew over the summer. Shortly after the transfer window closed, he released a statement confirming he had left the club, stating “A manager must have the right to manage and that clubs should not impose upon any manager any player that he does not want.” Keegan later successfully sued Ashley for unfair dismissal. It would be his last job in management.
In retirement, Keegan almost completely withdrew from football and public life. In occasional interviews, he admitted to not watching the game much and becoming disillusioned with aspects of modern football. Recent years have seen him tour UK venues with Pete Graves as part of an ‘Evening With’ series. He was due to appear at 11 venues across the country between November and February.
His last public appearance came on 31 May, fittingly in Newcastle at the Tyne Theatre, where he told the audience: “I want to say goodbye [to Newcastle fans]. I didn’t get the chance when I left last time.”
Responding to calls from fans for a statue of Keegan to be built outside St James’ Park, Keegan distanced himself from the idea, saying: “My statue is the way people receive me. You will have to wait until I die, I’m afraid.”