Newcastle United supporters are planning to join forces with Liverpool as part of a tribute to the late, great Kevin Keegan.
The world of football has been in mourning since the news of Keegan’s passing at age 75 following a battle with cancer. Keegan achieved legendary status at both Liverpool and Newcastle during his career.
The former England forward made over 300 appearances for the Reds, scoring 100 goals, winning three league titles, a European Cup, an FA Cup and two UEFA Cups in the process.
Kevin Keegan played an integral part in Liverpool’s first ever European Cup triumph (Photo by Liverpool FC via Getty Images)placeholder image
Kevin Keegan played an integral part in Liverpool’s first ever European Cup triumph (Photo by Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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The two-time Ballon d’Or winner then ended his professional playing career at Newcastle in the second division before returning as manager to help save the club from relegation and lead them to the top of English football within a few seasons. Keegan is widely regarded as one of, if not the ‘most important’ individuals in Newcastle’s modern history.
Tributes have been paid outside of both St James’ Park and Anfield over the past week, with a more permanent memorial being planned by Newcastle. Newcastle fan group, Wor Flags confirmed that a tribute is planned for the Premier League opener against Liverpool next month.
“We'll be paying tribute to the most important man in Newcastle United's history at our season opener against Liverpool on Sunday 23 August,” a Wor Flags statement read.
Wor Flags added: “As part of our display on the opening day of our season, we plan to involve every seat in the ground. Knowing how much King Kev means to the fans of both clubs, we’re also including the away end and have been in touch with @spionkop1906 as part of our planning. A reminder if you’d like to donate you can do so on our website: https://worflags.org.uk/donate/.”
There was set to be plenty of animosity between the clubs heading into the match following Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool for £130million last year. The match is set to be Isak’s first back at St James’ Park since his Premier League record transfer.
Liverpool also beat Newcastle to the signing of Spanish winger Victor Munoz despite the Magpies believing they had a deal agreed with Osasuna and the player.
But some things are bigger than football and club rivalries. While there is set to be plenty of tension between the sides and supporters during the match, they will be in unity before the match to pay their respects to one of English football’s all-time greats.
Newcastle supporters paid tribute to Keegan as part of a Wor Flags display last season following news of his cancer diagnosis. This past week has seen fans, staff and players lay flowers and memorabilia outside of St James’ Park to honour the club legend following his passing.