Newcastle United officially announce five week plan to honour Kevin Keegan

Written on Thursday, 23 July 2026
Jackie Smithfield

Newcastle United have officially revealed their plans to honour Kevin Keegan.

This follows Monday’s heartbreaking news that the United legend had passed away.

Newcastle United laying out a plan that will cover the next five weeks, as Kevin Keegan is honoured.

Thursday afternoon seeing the club put out an official announcement that begins: ‘Newcastle United’s men’s, women’s and Under-21s teams will wear black armbands across all pre-season matches this summer as the club honours the life of Kevin Keegan. A minute’s silence will be held before kick-off when Eddie Howe’s side travel to Gateshead this Saturday, as well as this weekend’s Academy fixtures.’

Newcastle United then adding: ‘The club can also outline additional tributes at Bristol City next week and during the Visit Malta Weekender friendlies in August, as well as planning for a poignant Premier League fixture against Liverpool, where Kevin also holds legendary status. The club will consult with Kevin’s family at the appropriate time before communicating further with supporters on any plans for a permanent tribute.’

The club going on to give further details:

Gateshead v Newcastle United (Saturday 25 July)

‘Saturday’s pre-season friendly at the Gateshead International Stadium marks the first match since Kevin’s passing earlier this week. Ahead of kick-off, both teams will observe a minute’s silence in his memory, and players on both sides will wear black armbands throughout the match as a mark of respect for a man revered on Tyneside.’

Bristol City v Newcastle United (Wednesday 29 July)

‘The Magpies’ men’s first team will travel to Ashton Gate on Wednesday 29th July to take on Bristol City – the opponents when Kevin first stepped into the dugout as Newcastle United manager in February 1992. Kevin’s image will be shown on stadium screens in the 7th minute – a nod to the number he wore with such distinction during his playing career – and supporters are invited to mark this with a minute’s applause in his honour.’

Newcastle United v Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg (Saturday 15 August and Sunday 16 August)

‘Newcastle United’s first matches back at St. James’ Park will be the Visit Malta Weekender against Bayer
Leverkusen and Strasbourg on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August respectively, with Newcastle United Women taking on Inter Milan at 1pm on Sunday. To give home supporters the opportunity to pay tribute where Kevin inspired so many memories, Kevin’s image will again be shown on stadium screens in the 7th minute of each fixture.’

The Mag CoversNewcastle United v Liverpool (Sunday 23 August)

‘The opening Premier League match of the 2026/27 sees Newcastle United hosting Liverpool – where Kevin made 323 appearances between 1971 and 1977. To ensure his memory is marked fittingly before the game, the club is in communication with Liverpool and will work closely with supporter groups, including its Fan Advisory Board, the Newcastle United Supporters Trust and Wor Flags, as well as the Premier League, to shape tributes.’

Source