St James' Park was a backrop of love, respect and admiration as the fans of Liverpool and Newcastle paid tribute to Kevin Keegan
Newcasttle United and Liverpool fans pay tribut to Kevin Keegan
Newcasttle United and Liverpool fans pay tribut to Kevin Keegan
There wasn't a dry eye in the house as Newcastle United and Liverpool fans stood together to pay tribute to Kevin Keegan ahead of the opening game of the season at St James' Park.
Each supporter was handed a piece of card with Keegan's name on, and the centre of the Leazes End resembled the Messiah's famous number 7 shirt.
Above the Newcastle fans the Liverpool end on Level 7 simply read "Keegan" to underline the mutual respect for the former England star.
Before the game Matthias Jaissle had said: "I must pay tribute to Kevin Keegan on a day where everyone inside the stadium will come together to celebrate his life and incredible achievements in football.
Newcasttle United and Liverpool fans pay tribut to Kevin Keegan
Newcasttle United and Liverpool fans pay tribut to Kevin Keegan
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"I haven’t been at the club for long, but I’ve already heard so many amazing stories and memories about Kevin’s time here as a player and manager. He made a phenomenal impact on this club and is a huge source of inspiration for anybody who has the privilege of following in his footsteps, which I am so honoured to do.
"It’s clear he was more than just a football manager – a true gentleman who had time for everybody and made our supporters believe that anything could be possible.
"I have nothing but admiration for Kevin’s approach to football. He had a special playing style where he wanted not only to win, but also to entertain. It will be emotional before kick-off and I know that the supporters of both clubs will do a fantastic job in showing the world how much Kevin meant to all of us."
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