Newcastle United's opening game of the Premier League season is always a raucous affair, and when the Magpies were scheduled to take on Liverpool at St James' Park on August 23, the stakes got even higher.
However, the death of Kevin Keegan this week has added an emotional element to the meeting of the two famous clubs, which both played a huge part in the footballing legend's career.
Keegan's Legacy at Both Clubs
While Keegan was a hero on Tyneside for what he achieved both as a manager and player in some incredible times at St James', he remained an Anfield favourite after six trophy-filled seasons on Merseyside.
He was held in high esteem by supporters of both clubs, and plans are now in place for a fitting tribute ahead of the season-opener next month.
Wor Flags Confirms Tribute
Wor Flags, famed for their spectacular pre-match displays at St James' Park in recent seasons, have confirmed they are planning a special tribute to Keegan in what will be an emotional day for all.
They posted on social media: "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. If you'd like to contribute to our display you can do so on our website: https://worflags.org.uk/donate/"
Keegan's Career Highlights
Keegan scored 100 goals for Liverpool in 323 games for the club between 1971 and 1977, before leaving for German club Hamburg. During that time he won three league titles, the FA Cup, famously beating Newcastle 3-0 at Wembley in 1974, and the European Cup in 1977.
He became a Geordie hero in 1982 after agreeing to come to then Second Division Newcastle, scoring on his debut in 1982 and helping guide the club back to the First Division in 1984.
It was as a manager that he truly cemented his hero status with United fans, taking over in 1992 with the club perilously close to relegation into the old Third Division. They survived that season before cruising to promotion in the following campaign, and taking the Premier League by storm with a brand of exciting football that saw them dubbed 'The Entertainers'.
Death at Age 75
Keegan died aged 75 this week after confirming earlier this year that he was suffering from stage four cancer. His death has seen an emotional outpouring of grief and affection throughout the footballing world.
