Kevin Keegan raised a new perspective as he praised the “great job” that Eddie Howe has done as manager of Newcastle United.
Howe contacted King Kev when he was appointed as Newcastle manager in 2021 asking for advice. Back then, Keegan revealed that being honest with supporters was key to the role.
Few know the ins and outs of what it takes to be in the dugout at St. James’ Park more than the Entertainers manager, who insists he had one specific advantage over Howe when he took over the job.
Kevin Keegan believes the incredible job Eddie Howe has done is made “even more remarkable” when he arrived without the prior knowledge of Newcastle that the likes of Sir Bobby Robson and King Kev himself came with.
While Keegan came into the role as a novice young manager with no prior experience, he had familiarity with the club from his childhood (his father and uncle being Toon fans), and his playing days in black-and-white in the 80s, while Sir Bobby was a boyhood fan who knew what it was all about.
“I am a massive fan of Eddie Howe,” said Keegan. “He has done a great job. Don’t forget, he’s also done it without the knowledge of the club that Sir Bobby Robson had and I had. My father gave me the information as a kid, but I played for them for two years.
“Eddie hasn’t had that which makes the job (he’s done) even more remarkable. But he just gets it, and that tells me he is bright football-wise, and technically, but also he’s gone into Newcastle and seen what it means straight away.
“Newcastle is a long way from Bournemouth and apart from Exeter and Torquay, it’s about as far as you can go in the English league.”
Mike Ashley’s treatment of Keegan was nothing short of a disgrace with the unfair dismissal of the club legend in 2008 causing the 74-year-old to later say in 2013 he would only ever consider a return should Ashley leave the club.
However, Keegan still hasn’t made a public appearance despite speaking of his delight at Ashley’s departure and his contact with Howe. I don’t think there are more desired sights within the fanbase than Keegan returning to the turf at St. James’ Park.
Hopefully one day soon, especially after Wor Flags display and trophy; which feels fitting after that famous ‘you’ll get your club back’ quote, we can finally see Keegan grace NUFC with his presence once more.