Classic Kevin Keegan quotes

Just when you thought the Premier League was turning into a forum of bland platitudes, Mighty Mouse returns to brighten things up. Here are some of his classic utterances...

“I would love it if we could beat them. Love it. He’s gone down in my estimation [Sir Alex Ferguson]. Manchester United haven’t won this yet, I’d love it if we beat them”

- His finger-jabbing rant on Sky TV as the 1995-6 title race begins to heat up.

“Only one team can win this now - England”

- To ITV viewers seconds before Dan Petrescu’s goal heralds a 1998 World Cup defeat to Romania

“I’ve got four games and that’s the deal. I’m going to do the four games, then I hope I’m going to leave the new manager in a position I would like to be left for me. Then I’m going back to Fulham”

- Keegan sets out his plans as England caretaker-boss

“The day I don’t get emotional about football, I’ll be back playing golf again in Spain”

- On his future as England boss.

“I have no complaints. Absolutely no one is to blame but myself. I did the job to the best of my ability. I am not the man to take it that stage further. I have to be true to myself. Kevin Keegan has given it his best shot. I told the players I don’t think I can find that little bit extra that you need at this level”

- On quitting as England boss.

“Top six is our aim, you have to aim high and I would be very disappointed if we didn’t finish in the top six”

- Keegan thinks big for City shortly after the arrival of Nicolas Anelka.

“I can’t abide people doing things like that. These sorts of players are no good to anybody. I’m disgusted with him. As far as I’m concerned, Danny Tiatto doesn’t exist”

- After Tiatto is sent off in 2-2 draw with Blackburn in 2002.

“I have to admit that what I said to the referee outside his room afterwards was out of order. That was wrong and I owe him a letter of apology for that”

- Keegan apologises for branding referee Steve Dunn a “homer” after Newcastle’s 4-3 win over his Manchester City side at St James’ Park in October 2004.