For Kevin Keegan, four games back in charge of English Premier League side Newcastle United probably feels like four months. Better known for his ‘you score four, we’ll score five’ approach, one goal in four league and cup matches means King Kev will certainly be feeling the chill; and I don’t mean the northeast weather.
With the closing of the January transfer window, so too came the end of Keegan’s honeymoon period. He brought in nobody of note and now faces the bewildering task of rejuvenating a side full of names, but perhaps not of character.
The ‘Geordie Messiah’ will undoubtedly look towards the likes of Nicky Butt, Joey Barton and Alan Smith to bring some much needed resilience to a side prone to errors this season, but these guys have already endured a disappointing time at St James’ Park, so will they be up for the challenge?
The glitz which surrounded Keegan’s reappointment no longer litters the press, although the affectionate banners still remain among the Newcastle faithful who, like Keegan, probably can’t wait for the season to end and the rebuilding to start.
One Geordie dream has already evaporated. The partnership of Keegan and Alan Shearer was over before it began when Shearer decided to turn down a coaching role.
While I don’t expect Keegan to be leaving any time soon, he showed at Newcastle in his first spell, as well with England and Manchester City, that when it’s too hot in the kitchen he gets out.
Will the romance of Keegan’s return be enough for him to stay longer this time?
Neil Maidment, London
PHOTO: Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan reacts during their defeat to Arsenal, Jan.29 REUTERS/Eddie Keogh
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3 comments so far
Kevin has arrived at a place where no manager in their right mind would want to go. Although a terrific club, the expectations to succeed can undoubtedly onerous to success. We saw with Alladyce, Roeder and others that a succession of bad result will open the exit.
- Posted by Adam HopperHis management style on his previous visit to Newcastle had great success but this was at a time when the english game was significantly different to that of today. The array of foreign talent and managers has changed the game dramatically and Kevin will need time -and a decent back four- to turn things around on the Tyne.
The subdued atmosphere which is again evident after no wins under the new regime could begin to pressure the former Man City boss. However, its a club he aodres and has many a great memory as both a player and manager and this will see greatness shine once more on the Tyne.
Well-written piece, and as a life-long man city fan I can speak from experience… it wasn’t as if keegan was even burdened with the pressure of expectation at city!
- Posted by James BrennanWell Keegan is calling for more money to be invested into the club in the Summer, I think that this will be the determining factor in whether so called ‘King Kev’ remains next season.
- Posted by Betting Blue BoyI agree with the statement that Keegan gets out quickly and in my opinion far too quickly, looks like he has no staying power which is not surprising with him being from Doncaster.