Football: The World According To King Kev
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.1979
I believe I can live with any situation in which I find myself. If I were going into the ring with Muhammad Ali, I'd honestly believe I deserved to be there. I wouldn't think of being knocked out, only of winning
Many people have helped me on my way, but only one person made me. That was Shanks
(in praise of Bill Shankly)
1982
I'm finished with England. I'll never kick a ball for my country again. After 10 years and 60 caps, I deserve better than to learn of my omission indirectly through the media
(after being left out of Bobby Robson's first squad)
1985
If anyone ever hears that Kevin Keegan is coming back to football full- time, they can laugh as much as I will. It will never happen. That is certain
(leaving to live in Marbella)
1992
You hope and you pretend you know what you're doing
(after entering management at Newcastle)
1995
As a manager you always have a gun to your head. The question is whether there's a bullet in the barrel
(on selling Andy Cole)
1996
I would love it if we beat them [Manchester United], just love it
(after psychological warfare by Alex Ferguson)
1998
There's only one team that's going to win it now and that's England
(as World Cup pundit, a minute before Romania scored winning goal)
1999
Whoever the FA have chosen, good luck to him. But it's not me, so I hope no one's had a bet on me
(last week, insisting he was "not interested" in managing England)
... and how others see him
1981
Kevin Keegan is the Julie Andrews of football
Duncan McKenzie
1982
Skill-wise, he's not fit to lace my boots
George Best
1993
As a player, Kevin had 75 per cent ability and 150 per cent fitness. He had to do it by hard work, and it influenced others when he became a manager
Tommy Smith
1995
If Kevin fell into the Tyne he'd come up with a salmon in his mouth
Jack Charlton
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments