Tearful ex-Newcastle star Shola Ameobi pays emotional tribute to Kevin Keegan as he views tributes at St James’ Park

EX-NEWCASTLE star Shola Ameobi paid an emotional tribute to former boss Kevin Keegan yesterday after his tragic death. The ex-striker rubbed his eyes as he viewed a sea of flowers, scarves and footie tops left by fans at St James’ Park. Former Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi visiting the shrine to former player and manager Kevin Keegan Credit: PA Former striker Shola looked emotional as he viewed a sea of flowers, scarves and footie tops left by fans Credit: PA Nigeria ace Shola, 44, spent 14 years at Newcastle, scoring 53 goals, and is now a club ambassador. King Kev, who died aged 75 after being diagnosed with stomach cancer, was his boss during his second spell as manager in 2008. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Hartlepool boss Lee Clark, who played under Keegan in the 1990s, also visited the makeshift shrine. He said: “He was a hero at first, then my boss and friend. READ MORE ON KEVIN KEEGAN Kevin Keegan was one of England’s greatest players and went on to manage the national team Credit: Getty Ameobi spent 14 years at Newcastle and is now a club ambassador Credit: PA:Press Association “He was like the Pied Piper to the Geordie public. They adore him.” Sir Alex Ferguson praised Keegan for building Newcastle’s “greatest team” in the 1990s when vying with Man United for the title. Current Toon boss Eddie Howe said Keegan, who also played for Liverpool, Southampton and England, was an “inspiration”. Comment now