Liverpool and Newcastle United fans paid a moving tribute to Kevin Keegan ahead of their Premier League campaign opener at St James' Park on Sunday. Keegan, who played for both clubs before going on to manage Newcastle from 1992 to 1997 and then again briefly in 2008, died aged 75 on July 20 following a short battle with stomach cancer.
Family and former players in attendance
Members of Keegan's family were in the directors' box, as were many of his former players during his first stint at Newcastle, including Alan Shearer, Peter Beardsley and Faustino Asprilla. Both Liverpool and Newcastle players warmed up with 'Keegan 7' emblazoned on the back of their shirts.
A giant mosaic made from tributes left outside St James' Park following the death of the former England captain was displayed on the centre circle before kick-off. Liverpool fans displayed a banner in the away stand which read: "Keegan Is The Greatest That Shankly Ever Found."
Fan displays and applause
Fan group Wor Flags created a display which involved all seats inside the stadium, with 'Keegan 7' spelt out in the Leazes End and a tifo of 'King Kev' in the East Stand. The teams and supporters then united in a one-minute applause ahead of kick-off before the chant "there's only one Kevin Keegan" erupted from the stands.
A letter from the Keegan family released ahead of the match said: "Despite living outside of the region, your love and warmth from the North East has reached our hearts and filled us with so much comfort during these difficult days."
Family's gratitude
The letter continued: "The empathy, compassion and warmth of this extraordinary club and community have shone through; the outpouring of love has been truly overwhelming. Having seen the tributes outside St. James' Park, members of our family came home to Newcastle to see the memorials in person."
"The sea of black and white shirts and scarves, alongside colours from so many other clubs, reminded us how much Kevin meant to the footballing world. It was a sombre moment that reminded us of our pain and loss, yet matched with immense pride and love as we read so many personal and heartfelt messages."
"Kevin always shared his love for Newcastle United, Geordies, and the city, captivating us with stories told with his infectious smile. Seeing these tributes brought those stories to life for Kevin's grandchildren, showing them how deeply their grandfather was loved in return. It also allowed us a quiet moment to reflect on many fond memories of Kevin's incredible career and the incomparable bond he shared with Newcastle."
The letter concluded: "Your football club, city, and community show a passion that truly embodied Kevin as a footballer, manager, and family man. We will be eternally grateful for the adoration and strength you have given our family when we needed it most. Newcastle, thank you for your love."
