TERRY McDERMOTT believes Newcastle United have been pining for Kevin Keegan ever since he left the club in 1997.
Special K will take charge of his first pre-season programme since the summer of 1996 – when he captured Alan Shearer for £15m.
The Toon gaffer has made just one summer signing so far, in the shape of Argentina international Jonas Gutierrez, who joined the club this week from La Liga outfit Real Mallorca.
Keegan’s young defender Steven Taylor has also signed a three-year contract, with the United boss making clear progress since returning to his desk at the end of last month.
And KK’s assistant coach McDermott said: “This is what this club has needed for a lot of years.
“We have had some good managers.
“Sam Allardyce was a good fella, and Graeme Souness was a fantastic guy and a good manager, but they were here at the wrong time.
“Kevin, though, is a bit special.
“He loves Newcastle United and the fans absolutely love him.
McDermott has been on the scene at St James’s Park for the majority of Newcastle’s Premier League years.
And he knows exactly how the doom and gloom of last season can quickly change.
United got their campaigns off to great starts back in 1994/95 and 1995/96, which helped achieve top-six finishes.
McDermott and Keegan kicked every ball in 1996 when United went so close to lifting the Premier League trophy in just their third season in the top flight.
And the Liverpudlian said: “Getting results is the one that will lift everyone.
“It lifts the players and the mood of the club.
“Not to mention what it does for the fans.
“Good performances are next. Everyone knows our fans like to see Newcastle win, but also to win in style.
“Everyone knows that is Kevin’s philosophy.”
Meanwhile, United striker Obafemi Martins has again been linked with a switch to Arsenal.
Gunners’ boss Arsene Wenger is a fan of the Nigerian forward, and could make a move if Emmanuel Adebayor leaves this summer.
But, while Martins admitted a move to the Emirates Stadium would be tempting, he insists he is happy at Newcastle.
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