by
Ryan Clement
SADLY, on 20 July 2026 the world lost a great footballer, manager and person, Kevin Keegan O.B.E.
WHEN I was a kid, he was the footballer youngsters aspired to be like. He was quick, hardworking and scored goals regularly for both club and country. He was eloquent and charming. Although many football fans old enough would remember his infamous outburst on live television in the U.K., for me this was simply a sign of Mr. Keegan wearing his heart on his sleeve.
FURTHERMORE, he achieved what many footballers have failed to do by playing for two top flight teams in the same league, Liverpool and Newcastle United, and yet be respected throughout by both sets of supporters simultaneously and afterwards. That said more about him than the fans because they were simply reacting to a person loved by us all and respecting what he had done for the beautiful game; not to mention the bank of great memories he gave us to cherish forever! Great nights at Anfield, the home of Liverpool FC, and Great nights at St. James’ Park, the home of Newcastle United FC.
IT IS THEREFORE SOMEWHAT FITTING that both Newcastle United and Liverpool begin their 2026/27 Premier League campaigns at 4.30pm today (Sunday, 23 August 2026) against each other at St. James’ Park. It was written in the stars! ✨
As a kid, I was fortunate to have a summer and weekend job that was a few minutes walk from my home in West London. One day, my hero walk in. I asked for his autograph. He gave it without hesitation and asked me my name. It felt personal even though I knew that had to be his style for everyone he first met. But it made me feel special. It was special from a ‘truly’ special one.
Thank you, Sir, and Thank you for the memories! 🙏🏾
Copyright © Ryan Clement 2026
Ryan Clement 