Sir Alex Ferguson Pays Tribute to Kevin Keegan After Former Rival's Death

Sir Alex Ferguson said he had the utmost respect for Kevin Keegan after the former Newcastle United manager died aged 75. Ferguson, whose Manchester United side beat Newcastle to the Premier League title in 1995-96, described their managerial encounters and the impact Keegan made on Tyneside.

"I had the utmost respect for him," Ferguson told Track Radio.

managerial success at Newcastle Keegan's first stint as Newcastle manager ran from 1992 to 1997. He guided the club to promotion to the Premier League in 1992-93 and later finished as runners-up to United three years later. Ferguson said Keegan re-energised the club and brought enthusiasm that supporters embraced.

"He re-energised that club and he brought that enthusiasm and fanaticism that great supporters can give," Ferguson said.

rivalry and later meeting Keegan famously said "I will love it if we beat them" in a televised outburst aimed at Ferguson after Newcastle surrendered a 12-point lead in the 1995-96 title race. Ferguson recalled meeting Keegan weeks later at Wentworth Golf Club and noted the absence of lingering animosity.

"The great thing about him, he held no grudges," Ferguson said.

former teammates and players Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer described Keegan as a friend and said he loved football and Newcastle United. Current Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said Keegan offered guidance and support after Howe took the job in 2021.

Former Liverpool defender Phil Thompson called Keegan "the best of all the people I have known in football and in sport" and praised his humility.