‘His impact…’ - David Ginola breaks silence as Newcastle United tease Kevin Keegan statue
Kevin Keegan signed David Ginola in July 1995 and the two went on an emotional journey at Newcastle United.
David Ginola has insisted Kevin Keegan’s legacy “will live forever” as Newcastle United continue to mourn the club icon.
It was Keegan who rescued the mercurial winger from intense backlash in his home country. Ginola’s error against Bulgaria that led to France failing to qualify for the 1994 World Cup.
He remained at Paris Saint-Germain for another season but was desperate to seek a new adventure. When a move to Barcelona broke down, Newcastle swooped in - and the rest is history.
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David Ginola at Newcastle United
Ginola dazzled over two seasons at St James’ Park and was one of the defining players during the “Entertainers” era. He came within a whisker of winning the Premier League title in 1995-96 - a blow that stings Tyneside to this day.
Keegan leaving influenced Ginola’s decision to join Tottenham Hotspur. His flair and individuality did not align with Kenny Dalglish’s more robust style and a transfer was sanctioned.
‘Immense sadness’ - David Ginola
Speaking to the club website, Ginola eulogised Keegan for the impact he had on his career. He said: “It is with immense sadness that I learned of the passing of Kevin Keegan. Kevin was much more than a manager to me.
“He was a man who believed in people, who inspired confidence, and who helped bring the very best out of those fortunate enough to play for him. When I arrived at Newcastle United, Kevin gave me the opportunity to express myself on the pitch and to play football with freedom, passion and joy. For that, I will always be grateful.
“The years we shared at Newcastle were some of the most memorable of my career. Kevin built a team but, more importantly, he built a family. He brought hope, excitement and pride back to the city, and he created a connection between the players and the supporters that was truly special. St James' Park became a place of dreams because of his vision, his courage and his love for the game.
“Kevin's enthusiasm was infectious. He believed that football should entertain, and he encouraged us to play with confidence and ambition. His impact on Newcastle United, on English football and on everyone who worked alongside him will never be forgotten.
“Today, my thoughts are with his family, his friends, his former teammates and the millions of supporters whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable career. Thank you, Kevin, for your faith, your leadership and your friendship. Your legacy will live forever in the hearts of Newcastle supporters and in the memories of those of us who were privileged to be part of your journey. Rest in peace.”
David Hopkinson hints at Kevin Keegan statue
When asked how Newcastle will pay tribute to Keegan moving forward, David Hopkinson said: “The hearts, the minds and the faces of everyone here, first and foremost. Clearly, we've got a statue of Alan Shearer here, we've got a statue of Sir Bobby Robson here and Kevin's impact in this club… extraordinary.
“I think it demands a physical tribute. What that means, a statue, a stand… the answer is we haven't determined that yet. It's early for that. We're going to make that determination ultimately and at the right time in conjunction and consultation with the family. We're not on to that today. Today, we're just mourning like everybody else.”
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