When you think of Newcastle United, the name Kevin Keegan immediately comes to mind.
As both a player and manager, he became synonymous with the club’s passion, energy, and near-miss moments in the Premier League.
This week, Keegan shared his admiration for Eddie Howe, praising the manager for rekindling the emotional bond between Newcastle and its supporters.
Eddie Howe Brings Silverware and Stability
Keegan, who came heartbreakingly close to Premier League glory with Newcastle in 1996, sees Howe as the manager who finally delivered the silverware fans had been waiting for.
This year, Newcastle claimed the Carabao Cup by defeating Liverpool, and Howe has guided the team back into European competition, restoring a sense of optimism on Tyneside.
“Eddie isn’t just a great coach,” Keegan said.
“He understands the identity and emotional heartbeat of Newcastle – something many managers before him struggled with.
He’s rebuilt the connection with supporters through honesty, hard work, and a clear style of play.
Winning that trophy shows how profoundly he’s lifted the mood around the club.”
Building for the Future
Keegan emphasized that Newcastle’s upward trajectory relies on patience and strategy.
“For the club to keep challenging, they need smart signings, stability, and a strong culture.
With Europe now part of the journey, they finally look like a club moving upwards with real purpose,” he added.
The timing of his comments coincides with the first Tyne-Wear derby in nearly a decade, where Newcastle faces Sunderland this weekend.
The atmosphere, Keegan insists, is a testament to the club’s revitalized energy.
A Return to His Roots at Scunthorpe
Away from the Premier League spotlight, Keegan returned to Scunthorpe United, the club where his professional journey began, to support Guinness’ Boxing Day campaign offering 10,000 free pints to non-league fans across the country.
At 74, the former England captain and two-time Ballon d’Or winner even got behind the bar to serve fans himself.
“Coming back to Scunthorpe reminds me what makes non-league football so special,” he said.
“Boxing Day is massive for these clubs – big crowds, big atmosphere, and a real sense of community.
Sharing a pint with the fans felt like being right back where it all began for me.
It reconnects me to the people and places that shaped my career – humble beginnings, community support, and mentors who believed in me.
Football’s soul really lies in clubs like this.”
From Humble Beginnings to Premier League Glory
Keegan’s reflections highlight the enduring link between football, community, and leadership.
From pouring pints at Scunthorpe to watching Howe lift a trophy at St James’ Park, the footballing journey comes full circle – showing how vision, passion, and connection with fans can transform a club’s fortunes.
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