Newcastle and Liverpool unite in emotional tribute to Kevin Keegan

Newcastle United and Liverpool supporters came together to honour club legend Kevin Keegan as the two sides met for the first time since his death at St James’ Park on Sunday.

Keegan, the former England captain who played for both clubs and later managed Newcastle, died aged 75 last month following a battle with cancer.

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His family attended the Premier League season opener from the directors’ box, while several members of the Newcastle team Keegan managed during his first spell at the club were also present.

Among those in attendance were Alan Shearer, Rob Lee, Peter Beardsley, Tino Asprilla, Warren Barton, Shaka Hislop, Lee Clark, Darren Peacock, Steve Watson, Ruel Fox, Steve Howey and Liam O’Brien.

Players wear Keegan 7

During the warm-up, players from both Newcastle and Liverpool wore shirts bearing “Keegan 7” on the back in honour of the former winger.

A centre-circle mosaic made from more than 500 shirts left outside St James’ Park following Keegan’s death was then unveiled.

A tribute video celebrating his career was also shown on the stadium’s big screen before supporters’ group Wor Flags unveiled a spectacular display involving every seat in the stadium, including the sections occupied by Liverpool fans.

The words “Keegan 7” were displayed in the Leazes End, while a huge image of Keegan, known affectionately as “King Kev”, appeared in the East Stand.

In the Gallowgate End, supporters displayed one of Keegan’s most famous quotes:

“I want people to dream about their football club.”

The banner continued with Keegan’s message about refusing to accept limitations and asking, “Why not?”

Emotional tribute from supporters

Players and supporters from both clubs then joined together for a minute’s applause before kick-off.

Chants of “One Kevin Keegan” echoed around St James’ Park as Newcastle fans paid tribute to one of the most influential figures in the club’s modern history.

Keegan enjoyed two spells as Newcastle manager and played a major role in transforming the club’s fortunes during his first spell between 1992 and 1997.

His attacking philosophy and charismatic personality helped inspire Newcastle’s supporters and made him one of the most beloved figures in the club’s history.

Family thank supporters

Keegan’s family had previously expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support following his death.

In an open letter ahead of Sunday’s match, they thanked Newcastle and football supporters for providing comfort during their grief.

They said the sea of black-and-white shirts and scarves, alongside colours representing clubs from across the country, demonstrated how much Keegan meant to the football community.

“Kevin always shared his love for Newcastle United, Geordies, and the city,” the family said.

They added that seeing the tributes had helped Keegan’s grandchildren understand how deeply their grandfather was loved.

The family said the tributes brought to life the stories Keegan had shared about Newcastle and its supporters, creating a lasting reminder of his connection with the club and the city.

The occasion provided an emotional reunion between Newcastle and Liverpool, two clubs that played significant roles in Keegan’s extraordinary football career.