Press article:

Keegan days will never be repeated - 29/01/2006

Links:  Managers:    Graeme Souness    Kevin Keegan  Clubs:    Newcastle United

Newcastle will never recapture the feelgood factor of the Kevin Keegan era, fears Robbie Elliott.

It is 10 years since Elliott was part of Keegan's "Entertainers" and their heroic failed bid to win the Premiership.

For most fans, the contrast between their mood now and then is a painful one.

And while Elliott remains firmly behind Graeme Souness' bid to turn things round at St James's Park, he believes the euphoria of KK's reign may be gone forever.

"I'm not sure the club will ever recapture that, to be honest. At least, not for a long while," said Elliott.

"It wasn't just the fact that Newcastle had a successful side and went so close to winning something, but the way we did it that was unique.

"There was just this momentum behind the club, and we all got swept along - manager, players, fans.

"I'm not saying we can't be successful or not win things in the future - of course we can," added the defender.

"But the mood in the club and around the city back then was something that comes along only maybe once in a generation."

However, Elliott remains a staunch supporter of Souness, adding: "He's got the respect of all the players and our belief that he will succeed here."

The Sunday Sun

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