Eddie Howe and Alan Shearer issue touching statements following death of Kevin Keegan

Monday 20th July 2026 was a dark day for football as Kevin Keegan lost his short battle with cancer.

The Newcastle United legend, hailed as the Messiah by so many for years, passed away on Monday surrounded by his family.

Keegan revealed at the turn of the year that he had been diagnosed with cancer, but at the end of May he appeared to be in good spirits as he appeared in Newcastle for a talk with fans.

During that talk, Keegan spoke about returning to St James' Park as he never got to give the fans a real goodbye. It gave us hope, but sadly it's one that we will not see realised now.

Eddie Howe spoke to Kevin Keegan after being given the Newcastle job

Following the announcement, there was an outpouring of tributes from fans, players and all corners of the football world. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe released a statement via the club on behalf of the players and staff, hailing Keegan as an 'inspiration'.

"On behalf of our players and staff, I want to send our love, strength and deepest condolences to Kevin’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"Kevin was an inspiration to me as a young player and, I’m honoured to say, a friend whose guidance and support meant a great deal in recent years.

"Long before I ever dreamed of becoming a manager, I was captivated by his Entertainers team. They played with courage, freedom and excitement. They made people fall in love not only with football, but with Newcastle United.

"Those teams reflected Kevin himself – passionate, positive, fearless and full of energy. That spirit remains part of this club’s identity today and will continue to push our players and staff and inspire generations to come.

"For me personally, Kevin’s influence became even more meaningful when I arrived at Newcastle United as manager.

"He showed me incredible warmth and generosity. He had already given so much to this football club, yet he immediately made me feel welcome.

"Kevin understood better than most the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. He was always willing to share his wisdom, offer encouragement and provide support, and I will always be grateful for that.

"What struck me most was his humility. Despite everything he achieved in the game and his iconic status here, he never sought recognition. He simply wanted to help because he cared deeply about the club and the people within it.

"Every conversation with Kevin left you feeling better. He had remarkable warmth and humour and also a love for football that touched everyone around him. It is profoundly saddening that he is no longer with us.

"Kevin’s legacy will live on through this football club, its supporters and everyone he inspired.

"Thank you, Kevin, for everything. Rest in peace."

Alan Shearer was joined by fellow Entertainers in posting touching tributes to King Kev

After initially reacting on X with a nine-word post saying, "My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss", Alan Shearer then followed that up with a longer statement released via the club 

"He was my hero. He was my manager. For Newcastle and England.

"He was my friend. A man everyone loved. For his passion. For his energy but most of all for his friendship. He loved football and he loved Newcastle more than anything.

"I’m so honoured to have known him. We will miss you Kevin."

Fellow Entertainers, Les Ferdinand, Warren Barton and Shay Given also gave statements via the club's official media channels.
 

Tino Asprilla reacted via Instagram

Even former striker Faustino Asprilla was quick to react via Instagram with a post saying just how much Keegan had an effect on his career.

"Today is a day I never wanted to see. 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.

"He taught me that football is about much more than winning. It’s about passion, loyalty, hope, and never giving up. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my life, and for that I will be forever grateful.

"Today, Newcastle has lost a true legend, and the football world has lost one of its greatest gentlemen. 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. Your legacy will live on forever.

"Rest in peace, Kevin Keegan. You will never be forgotten.

"My deepest condolences and all my love go to Kevin’s family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him during this incredibly difficult time. 🖤🤍"

The sheer number of tributes and touching stories is already overwhelming, and we're just scratching the surface. It just goes to show how much Kevin Keegan meant to everyone at Newcastle United and beyond.