Keegan - Can He Still Motivate?

Last updated : 29 February 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

Asked if he has still got what it takes to inspire his players to get the results he needs to stay in the Premier League, he believes he is as good as he ever was at motivation.

The 57-year-old is in desperate need of a first victory since his return to St James' Park and sees Blackburn as the first to fall under his Geordie rule.

When asked if he is finding it tough to motivate the players Keegan insisted it is not a problem.

Keegan: "I don't think so. They are up for it before games and they want to win football matches.

"But obviously, I am having a bit of a job putting some confidence into them. That's the hardest part.

"I need my best players out there performing to their abilities.

"Michael (Owen) is very fit and very focused at the moment.

"We hope - and I am confident - that the two goals he has scored for me so far are just a start.

"But apart from the goals, what has pleased me the most is his work-rate.

"We have not really played well enough to provide him with the sort of ammunition he needs, but even though we have supplied him with very little, he has managed to turn decent balls into goals.

"If we can improve that service and pick him out a little bit earlier, he will score goals.

"But the challenge is also there for the rest of the lads to get goals from elsewhere."