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Newcastle and Liverpool united in tribute to legend Keegan

Both Newcastle and Liverpool pay tribute to their legendary player on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.

Newcastle and Liverpool united in tribute to legend Keegan

Kevin Keegan, the former England captain and Newcastle United legend, passed away last month at the age of 75 after battling cancer. His family was present at Newcastle United's Premier League season opener against Liverpool at St James' Park on Sunday, marking their first meeting since his death. Keegan's former Newcastle players, including Alan Shearer, Rob Lee, and Tino Asprilla, were also in attendance.

Both teams honored Keegan by wearing his number 7 on their shirts during warm-ups. A mosaic of more than 500 shirts left outside the stadium in his memory was displayed in the center circle later. A tribute video was shown on the big screen, and supporters from both sides unveiled an elaborate display involving every seat in the stadium, including a tribute to Keegan spelled out in the Leazes End and a massive 'King Kev' tifo in the East Stand.

Keegan's family shared an open letter thanking supporters for their comfort during this difficult time, expressing how much he meant to the footballing world. The minute's applause rang out as the teams and fans joined together, with Keegan's family delivering an emotional tribute.

Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport Football's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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