One of the most recognizable names in football history, Kevin Keegan, is known not only for outstanding football talent but also for an extremely lively, energetic and passionate character. An influential forward turned high-profile coach and journalist, he was famous throughout the football world, since his talent and charisma had brought him to the top clubs of England and the best achievements on the international stage, as well.
Early life and career
Born in Armthorpe, England, raised among people with strong football traditions, in conditions where it was considered natural to demonstrate a good attitude to one's team and work hard for success, the future star made his debut at Scunthorpe United. Already then, his style attracted attention: a strong runner with excellent stamina, capable of taking responsibility on himself during play, Keegan proved from an early age that he was destined not for an ordinary career, but for exceptional heights in football.
Despite his relatively modest physical build, his strength was not physical power of muscles but constant movement of his legs, and also a unique skill, which consisted of being able to keep attacking the defender again and again until he would eventually break. In 1971, he joined Liverpool FC, opening a new page in his career.
Playing for Liverpool was the period that allowed him to develop not only as one of the stars of the club, but also to become a real personification of all the positive qualities of Liverpool: professionalism, fast game rhythm and, first of all, ability to win. Playing for one of the most successful teams of that time, with his ability to constantly move across the frontline of offense, Keegan managed to become an idol not only to supporters, but also to rivals: every one of his moves was aimed to give him a good chance to score.
The trophies that his time in Liverpool granted him also became evidence of the fact that Keegan became part of the history of Liverpool as a club with a good spirit, which managed to prove its success not only in English championships, but in Europe as well.
European peak
Joining Hamburger SV in 1977, his next achievement demonstrated great adaptability, because few British forwards have achieved such success in Germany. His performances with Hamburg, as well as winning the Ballon d'Or twice (in 1978 and 1979), granted him fame all over the continent. Being granted this reward was not only an expression of an ability to score goals; in reality, the fact that this award went to Keegan shows that he is recognized as an outstanding creator of football games as well as a person capable of changing his own game depending on the circumstances of his teammates.
This period in Germany allowed him to be sure of his belonging to the top league of footballers: despite the fact that it had seemed at first glance too risky to leave Liverpool (the team where his success had been achieved), he showed that he could compete on the highest level.
For England
During the long international career of Keegan, he demonstrated his personality as a footballer. Playing in the national team, this forward brought to the English squad not only his playing skills, but his charisma and his strong personality – qualities of players that people always pay attention to and expect from those who represent their country at tournaments.
It may seem to be quite obvious that a successful career in the national team usually brings additional pressure to any famous footballer. However, being a person with a bright, open personality and always being prepared for this kind of situation, Kevin Keegan managed to deal with all problems and succeed.
Playing on, then managing
Having ended his career with Southampton and Newcastle United, he gained the experience of playing in various conditions and in the stadiums of cities for which football means a lot more than mere sporting competition. After this period, he proved that he possessed leadership traits, and in 1992 he became the coach of Newcastle United.
His teams are known for a specific game, focused on attack and the emotional involvement of the crowd in it. Becoming the manager of one of the most watched clubs on the English scene, he showed what kind of person he was: his appearance in the press is quite impressive, he creates a lot of discussion around him, and in general, he is the person whose actions attract everyone's attention.
Being appointed the manager of England in 1999, he faced a very difficult task, and left this position after failure at Euro 2000. Later, he worked with Manchester City, taking on a project similar in its nature to the previous ones.
Being a manager, just like when he played, he was expected not only to win games but also to change the atmosphere, the style and the beliefs of the club and its supporters. The ability to create a special game atmosphere, which allows him to make a difference, is probably one of the main characteristics of his managerial style.
Why Kevin Keegan?
Kevin Keegan belongs to that rare number of football stars who attract attention not only because of their football, but also because of personal traits. This player managed to prove his success in various teams, including his national squad, and therefore, he became a person who is recognized as an idol in each of these teams. Being an excellent forward, he scored many goals and created chances for his teammates; being a manager, he inspired his teams to fight hard and play with a unique atmosphere. It's hard to forget his playing style, characterized by constant movement of his legs and active reaction.