But Kevin Keegan only needed to turn up at St James' Park to lift Newcastle from their misery and Given believes it is the turning point at the club.
No One More Relieved With Keegan Than Shay Given!
Speaking as he walked into St James' Park, Kevin Keegan said: "It's nice to be home. I'm delighted to be back."
Shay Given: "The hairs stood up on the back of my neck.
"It gave everyone a huge lift before tonight's game. You dream, like the fans dream, that Kevin Keegan would come back and maybe Alan (Shearer) would come back as well.
"But until it was announced today, you thought it was just a dream.
"Everyone's pinching themselves around the north east tonight. The dream's come true.
"Kevin Keegan has a lot of work to do with the squad and the team, but hopefully exciting times ahead."