Declan Donnelly pays tribute to Kevin Keegan
The TV presenter described the former Newcastle United manager as his childhood hero on his podcast.
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Declan Donnelly has spoken of his devastation following the death of his childhood hero, former Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan. Keegan died on July 20 at the age of 75 after a battle with stage four cancer.
Donnelly, who is from Newcastle upon Tyne, shared his memories of Keegan on the podcast 'Hanging Out With Ant And Dec'. He described Keegan as a ‘true legend to Newcastle United supporters’ and reminisced about the footballer’s impact on the region.
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Donnelly told listeners that Keegan was the reason he became interested in football, comparing him to David Beckham in his era. He recalled that Keegan’s signing for Newcastle United in 1982 coincided with his brother beginning to take him to matches, marking the start of his connection with the club.
“He was my childhood hero,” Donnelly stated. “When we got the news through last week, I was absolutely devastated. I’m not ashamed to say I shed a tear.” He added that Keegan “meant so much to the people of the North East” for the hope and enthusiasm he brought to their football team.
Donnelly also recounted meeting Keegan for the first time as a boy after winning a competition, describing the experience as exceptional. His presenting partner, Anthony McPartlin, also shared his respect for Keegan, noting that the footballer ‘saved our club when he came back as manager’ and was a ‘true legend of the game’.
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Questions this report answers
+How did Declan Donnelly describe Kevin Keegan?
Declan Donnelly called Kevin Keegan his childhood hero and a 'true legend' to Newcastle United supporters. He said Keegan meant so much to the people of the North East for bringing hope and enthusiasm to the football team.
+When did Kevin Keegan die?
Kevin Keegan died on July 20 at the age of 75 following a battle with stage four cancer. Declan Donnelly shared his devastation over the news on his podcast.
+How did Kevin Keegan influence Declan Donnelly's interest in football?
Kevin Keegan inspired Donnelly to become interested in football, comparing him to David Beckham in his era. Donnelly recalled that Keegan’s 1982 signing for Newcastle United marked the start of his connection with the club.
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