Arriving at Real Mallorca's Son Bibiloni training centre to see Newcastle United put through a light session ahead of last night's game, I spotted the imposing figure of John Toshack.

Now in charge of Wales, Toshack was watching Keegan – with whom he formed a legendary, and some would say telepathic strike partnership at Liverpool – put his players through their paces.

Keegan and Toshack might go back a long way, but the Welshman admitted he was still surprised at his friend's decision to go back into football last season.

"I think we were all surprised that he came back in the way he did," said Toshack.

"It was a difficult start for him – I think they went a while without a win – and it was difficult circumstances.

"He's seeing a big difference to how the club is being run now, to the way it was when he was last there.

"But you always hope that this year, or next year, Kevin can challenge again for trophies. He has some good players to work with, and hopefully, they can do it next year."

Here's hoping, John.

The final word goes to the journalist who asked Keegan in his post-Hertha Berlin Press conference: "Could you sense (Toshack) was there before you saw him".


A HANDFUL of fans made it to yesterday's training session on the outskirts of Palma.

And one young Newcastle United supporter left Son Biblioni with one of the Premier League's new balls thanks to an intrepid journalist.

A Nike ball had been left behind after being lodged high in the netting behind one goal, thanks to a waywood Nicky Butt shot.

One national writer did his good deed for the day by clambering up the fence to retrieve it.

At least he didn't go home empty-handed, unlike the travelling Press.


BAD news for programme collectors.

The organisers of the Mallorca Summer Cup haven't produced an official programme for the tournament.

So any programmes that turn up on eBay are pirates, like those that eventually surfaced for Newcastle United's last visit to Mallorca for a UEFA Cup tie four years ago.