'Fall in love' - Eddie Howe & Bruno Guimaraes lead Newcastle United tributes to Kevin Keegan
Newcastle United are mourning the loss of one of their greatest figures, Kevin Keegan.
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe and captain Bruno Guimaraes have paid tribute to Kevin Keegan, who has sadly passed away following a battle with cancer.
Keegan is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Newcastle’s history, having made an immense mark as both a player and a manager.
The two-time Ballon d'Or winner won promotion to England’s top-flight as a player in 1984 before returning eight years later to achieve the same feat as manager.
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Known as Keegan’s ‘Entertainers’, the Magpies came agonisingly close to winning the Premier League in 1995/96. However, Keegan's impact extended beyond what happened on the pitch.
Eddie Howe pays tribute to Kevin Keegan
Newcastle is a club and city in mourning, and Howe and Guimaraes are among those at the club to pay tribute to the great man.
Howe wrote: “Like everyone connected with Newcastle United, I was devastated to hear the news that Kevin has passed away.
“On behalf of our players and staff, I want to send our love, strength and deepest condolences to Kevin’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“Kevin was an inspiration to me as a young player and, I’m honoured to say, a friend whose guidance and support meant a great deal in recent years.
“Long before I ever dreamed of becoming a manager, I was captivated by his Entertainers team. They played with courage, freedom and excitement. They made people fall in love not only with football, but with Newcastle United.
“Those teams reflected Kevin himself – passionate, positive, fearless and full of energy. That spirit remains part of this club’s identity today and will continue to push our players and staff and inspire generations to come.
“For me personally, Kevin’s influence became even more meaningful when I arrived at Newcastle United as manager.
“He showed me incredible warmth and generosity. He had already given so much to this football club, yet he immediately made me feel welcome.
“Kevin understood better than most the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. He was always willing to share his wisdom, offer encouragement and provide support, and I will always be grateful for that.
“What struck me most was his humility. Despite everything he achieved in the game and his iconic status here, he never sought recognition. He simply wanted to help because he cared deeply about the club and the people within it.
“Every conversation with Kevin left you feeling better. He had remarkable warmth and humour and also a love for football that touched everyone around him. It is profoundly saddening that he is no longer with us.
“Kevin’s legacy will live on through this football club, its supporters and everyone he inspired. Thank you, Kevin, for everything. Rest in peace.”
Bruno Guimaraes and Newcastle United teammates pay tribute to Kevin Keegan
Taking to social media, Guimaraes wrote: "RIP! Legend of the club! Very sad with this news.” The Brazilian was joined by several of his teammates in paying tribute.
Jacob Murphy said: “RIP King Kev. An untouchable mark left at NUFC & football. My condolences to his friends & family.”
Fabian Schar said: “A NUFC icon. Your legacy will always live on at our club! Sending love to your family and loved ones.”
Joelinton said: “Rest in peace, King.”