Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to the late Kevin Keegan, praising the former Newcastle manager for constructing what he considers the finest squad in the club’s history. Keegan, the former England and Liverpool forward, passed away at 75 following a battle with cancer.
The two men were famously bitter rivals during the 1990s, most notably when Manchester United narrowly beat Newcastle to the Premier League crown in 1996. That season remains etched in memory for Keegan’s emotional television outburst, where he famously declared he would “love it” if his side beat Ferguson’s team to the title.
Despite their heated history, Ferguson spoke highly of the work Keegan performed at St. James’ Park. Upon his arrival, the club was facing relegation to the third tier, but Keegan transformed them into an elite, attacking force affectionately known as “the entertainers.” Ferguson noted that Keegan successfully revitalized the club, tapping into the fervor of the local fanbase and signing high-caliber talent such as Faustino Asprilla, David Ginola, and Philippe Albert.
Ferguson stated that while they endured intense professional battles, he held deep respect for his peer. He highlighted that Keegan’s lack of resentment was a defining quality, citing a friendly encounter at a pub near Wentworth Golf Club shortly after their famous title fight as evidence of their ability to move past their disagreements. Ultimately, the legendary United manager concluded that the vibrant and spirited team Keegan built remains the greatest iteration of Newcastle United ever assembled.
