Newcastle hero breaks down in tears during emotional Kevin Keegan tribute
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Kevin Keegan was an iconic figure of English football on and off the pitch (Picture: Getty Images) Newcastle United hero Lee Clark fought through tears during an emotional tribute to his former manager Kevin Keegan after his death on Monday. It’s a real tough day,’ Clark told the BBC. ‘I was lucky enough to witness him revitalise, not just Newcastle United Football Club, but also the city on two separate occasions. ‘Once as a player in the early 80s when I was just a youngster standing on the terraces and then to have him as my boss in the early 90s and he did that again as the manager, was just unbelievable. ‘A very, very sad day today, this city will be in mourning for a long time, they’ve lost a special person. ‘They always say…sorry I’m getting a bit emotional…they always say that no one person is bigger than a football club, but if there was ever one person who was close to that with Newcastle United, it was Kevin Keegan.’ Clark, who had two spells at Newcastle, explained how Keegan had a personal connection with his players. ‘He was just a special man.
Kevin Keegan celebrates with the Division One trophy in 1993 with Lee Clark (bottom left) (Picture: Getty Images) ‘Amazing to work with him every single day and him investing his time to make me better both as a player and a person. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.’ Not in the same legendary status, but certainly a Newcastle cult hero, Faustino Asprilla has fond memories of his time with Keegan. ‘Today is a day I never wanted to see,’ wrote the Colombian. ‘I am absolutely heartbroken to hear of the passing of Kevin Keegan.
Kevin wasn’t just a football manager to me—he was the man who introduced me to the Premier League and made me fall in love with the beautiful city of Newcastle. ‘Through his passion, belief, and love for the game, he inspired so many people, myself included. My heart is heavy, and I honestly can’t put into words how saddened I am by this news. ‘Thank you, Kevin for everything you gave to Newcastle United, to football, and to fans like me.