Liverpool F.C. Will stand alongside Newcastle United to honour Kevin Keegan before their Premier League season curtain-raiser on 23 August at St James' Park.
The two clubs are finalising plans to mark the passing of Keegan, who died at 75 this week after a battle with stage four cancer. Liverpool and Newcastle have already enjoyed legendary ties with Keegan, who won three league titles, the European Cup and two Uefa Cups during his six years at Anfield.
Newcastle have confirmed they’re working with Liverpool and the Premier League to shape a fitting tribute before the first weekend of the 2026-27 season. The Magpies will wear black armbands in all pre-season friendlies, starting with Saturday’s away trip to Gateshead. A minute’s silence will precede that match, followed by a tribute in the seventh minute at St James’ Park - a nod to the number seven shirt Keegan wore as a player.
The same tribute will appear when Newcastle face Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg on 15 and 16 August, and when the women’s team meet Inter Milan the following day. Newcastle will consult Keegan’s family on a permanent memorial, having already displayed his photo on screens during pre-season fixtures.
Why Keegan means so much to Liverpool F.C.
Keegan’s impact at Liverpool spanned six trophy-laden years in the 1970s. He lifted the European Cup in 1977 and the Uefa Cup twice, while also claiming three First Division titles and two FA Cups. His energy, leadership and goals made him a fan favourite.
The tribute plans reflect the deep respect both clubs held for Keegan. Newcastle’s men’s, women’s and under-21 sides have already adopted black armbands in his memory, showing how Keegan’s legacy bridges generations and genders across Tyneside.
When Liverpool F.C. Next take the field
Liverpool F.C. Currently sit 14th in the Premier League with zero points after two matchdays this season. Their next outing comes at St James’ Park on 23 August, where the Reds will line up alongside Newcastle in a fixture already loaded with emotion.
Jurgen Klopp’s side will arrive in north-east England fresh from pre-season work, while Newcastle prepare to open their campaign under Eddie Howe. The tribute adds another layer to a derby that already carries weight for both sets of supporters.
Newcastle have pledged to involve Keegan’s family in shaping a permanent tribute, ensuring his memory endures at St James’ Park. The club’s men’s team will also display Keegan’s photo in the seventh minute during their opening home friendlies, giving fans a chance to applaud the former England captain one last time.
Liverpool F.C. Have yet to detail their own plans for the fixture, but the club’s history with Keegan points to a fitting gesture when the two sides meet on 23 August. With the season just weeks away, the tribute will serve as a poignant reminder of the game’s human side beyond the scores on the board.
