Banner Said It All - Keegan In! Ashley And Wise Out!

Last updated : 03 September 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

Supporters flocked to St James' Park throughout Tuesday afternoon following reports that Keegan's second spell in charge of the Magpies was over after less than a year ... and they made the feelings known to club owner Mike Ashley.

Then the panic set in ... and Ashley HAD to do something!

He issued a statement shortly before 7pm included a denial that the board had dispensed with Keegan's services.

Fans demonstrated and it was 100% FOR Keegan and 100% against owner Mike Ashley.

Keegan was treated to a hero's return by fans when he was named as Sam Allardyce's successor, after an attempt by Ashley to install Harry Redknapp as boss.

And attempt that rocked Ashley, and he took flak for being snubbed by a man the majority of Toon fans didn´t want!

Keegan has yet to add his voice to the confusion, leaving Ashley to stew in his own juice.

It remains unclear who broke the news to the media that KK had been sacked, but we understand it DID happen and Ashley is desperate to take a U-turn.

Newcastle, under increasing pressure all day from fans and the media, finally issued a statement: "Newcastle United can confirm that meetings between members of the board and manager Kevin Keegan were held both yesterday and today.

"Kevin has raised a number of issues and those have been discussed with him.

"The club wants to keep progressing with its long-term strategy and would like to stress that Kevin is extremely important, both now and in the future.

"Newcastle United values the effort and commitment shown by Kevin since his return to St James' Park and wants him to continue to play an instrumental role as manager of the club.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the club has not sacked Kevin Keegan as manager."