Sir Alex Ferguson has expressed deep admiration for his former managerial rival, Kevin Keegan, describing him as the architect of Newcastle United’s “best ever team”, as tributes continue to pour in following Keegan’s passing.

The legendary former Manchester United manager, who was famously on the receiving end of Keegan’s passionate “I’d love it, absolutely love it, if we beat them” outburst, shared his respect for the ex-Newcastle boss after Keegan died aged 75 following a battle with cancer.

Speaking to Track Radio, Ferguson said: “I had the utmost respect for him. We had many battles when he was in charge of Newcastle, but I must say the job he did there was outstanding. He revitalised that club, bringing back the excitement and passion that only devoted supporters can provide. That’s the kind of impact he made.”

Ferguson went on to highlight Keegan’s influence in the transfer market, saying: “He brought in three wonderful players – David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla and Philippe Albert – who added real class to the side. The challenges we faced against Newcastle during that time were immense.”

He added: “Kevin wore his love for football on his sleeve; there’s no doubt about that. His enthusiasm spread to the fans and the players alike. That era at Newcastle was one of emotion and excitement. They assembled a brilliant team, and I believe it was Newcastle’s finest ever.”

The intensity of that period reached boiling point in April 1996 when, with Ferguson’s Manchester United closing in on Premier League leaders Newcastle, Keegan delivered his now-iconic emotional interview on Sky Sports. United would go on to snatch the 1995–96 Premier League title from the Magpies in dramatic fashion.

Ferguson recalled that a few weeks after the season ended, the two managers unexpectedly met at a pub near Wentworth Golf Club, where they set aside their rivalry for an evening of camaraderie and music. “The great thing about him was that he never held grudges,” Ferguson reflected. “That was a remarkable quality. We had a wonderful night together, and whatever had happened in the weeks before was quickly forgotten. I respected him immensely for that.”

Keegan’s death, announced on Monday, has led to widespread tributes from across the football world. The former star striker represented clubs including Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle, and also captained England.

Sir Trevor Brooking, who played alongside Keegan for England, issued a touching statement: “I am deeply saddened by the devastating news about my friend and former team-mate Kevin Keegan. My friendship with Kevin dates back many decades to our playing days for England. We developed a strong understanding on the pitch, instantly knowing what the other was thinking.”

Brooking continued: “Kevin loved making runs into space, and I always tried to time my passes so he could use his world-class ability to score. We shared rooms on England duty, and his bubbly personality ensured there was never a dull moment – often with jokes at my expense!”

He added: “I recently met Kevin and Jean for lunch when they were in London. Though it had been a while since we’d last met, it felt like no time had passed at all. That afternoon, reminiscing about our footballing days, is something I will always cherish. Our thoughts and love are with Jean, Laura, Sarah and all of Kevin’s family during this difficult time.”