Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to Kevin Keegan, recognizing him for building Newcastle United’s “greatest team.” Keegan, who battled cancer, passed away on Monday at the age of 75, prompting Ferguson to join the many voices honoring one of football's most beloved figures.

Ferguson and Keegan were rivals in a fierce battle for Premier League supremacy, with Ferguson’s Manchester United narrowly claiming the title in 1996. In a statement to Track Radio, Ferguson expressed, “I had the utmost respect for him. We had many duels when he was manager of Newcastle, but the job he did at Newcastle was fantastic.” He highlighted Keegan’s role in revitalizing the club, bringing enthusiasm and a fanatical spirit that inspired supporters.

Key contributions from Keegan included:

• Signing three pivotal players: David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla, and Philippe Albert.
• Transforming Newcastle into an exciting team, famously dubbed “the entertainers.”

Ferguson reflected on the intensity of their rivalry, including a memorable rant from Keegan near the end of the title race. Despite the heated moments, Ferguson maintained a friendly relationship with Keegan, admiring his remarkable rebuilding efforts at Newcastle, which had been on the brink of relegation when he took charge.

Ferguson stated, “Kevin carried the love of the game on his sleeve… that carried right on to the fans, to the players. That period at Newcastle was of emotion, it was excitement.” He believes that team was the best in the club's history.

Ferguson reminisced about a chance meeting with Keegan at a pub near Wentworth golf club weeks after the season ended, where they enjoyed a night of camaraderie. He noted, “He held no grudges… that was a fantastic quality he had.” This respect and friendship beyond rivalry highlighted the mutual admiration between two of football's great figures.