Why are Newcastle and Liverpool players wearing black armbands?

NEWCASTLE and Liverpool kick off their Premier League campaigns with a huge clash at St James’ Park this afternoon. Both sides are wearing black armbands in memory of footballing great Kevin Keegan. Kevin Keegan sadly passed away last month Credit: Reuters Both clubs laid wreaths outside St James’ Park for Kevin Keegan ahead of kick-off Credit: PA Why are Newcastle and Liverpool players wearing black armbands? Players and staff from both Newcastle and Liverpool are wearing black armbands in tribute to Keegan, who died aged 75 in July after a battle with cancer. Keegan achieved legendary status at both clubs during his illustrious career as both a player and manager. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Both sets of fans produced a moving display for Keegan prior to kick-off Credit: Reuters Keegan achieved legendary status at both clubs Credit: Reuters He scored 100 goals in 322 games during his time on Merseyside, helping Liverpool to three league titles, a European Cup, an FA Cup and two Uefa Cups during his time at the Reds. Keegan, who won the Ballon d’Or twice during his time at German side Hamburg, ended his playing days at Newcastle. The former England striker scored 49 times in 85 competitive appearances for the Magpies. He helped the Toon secure promotion to the First Division in 1983/84 before calling time on his incredible career. Eight years after retiring on Tyneside, Keegan returned to Newcastle as manager and helped save the club from relegation to the third tier for the first time in the club’s history. After sealing promotion back to the First Division in his first full season in the St James’ Park dugout, he led the Magpies to the summit of English football. Most read in Football Before this afternoon’s game, players warmed up in special shirts and a moving display by Wor Flags included both Newcastle and Liverpool supporters. A minute’s applause also took place prior to kick-off on what will be a very emotional day for all concerned. Comment now