He's Baaaaack

King Kev is at it again. For the third time in his career, Kevin Keegan looks set to take over Newcastle United. With a South African consortium in with a bid to buy Newcastle as well as a Nigerian conglomerate with an eye to do the same, Keegan has stated his intention to return as caretaker of the floundering Toon. Both African bidders have shown their support for a KK rally, and the grey-haired gaffer may be on his way back to Tyneside.

Newcastle has been in a distinct freefall since Keegan's departure, with such highly-rated signings as Fabricio Coloccini and Xisco left wondering what exactly they got themselves into. At a lowly 19th position in the Premier League table (right about suicidal Tottenham), Newcastle has no choice but to right the quickly sinking ship before the crew and passengers decide to swim away. Newcastle supporters have been overwhelmingly vocal concerning their beloved Black and Whites, and change must come about for them to be even remotely satisfied.

In addition, the stars currently residing at St. James' Park will not stand for any more upheaval, and will slowly file out of northern Engerland as quickly as you can say Owen, Owen and away! The return of Keegan may indeed temporarily stop the bleeding for Newcastle, but it may not fix the wound. As Keegan said when he left in 1997: "It was my decision and my decision alone to resign. I feel I have taken the club as far as I can, and that it would be in the best interests of all concerned if I resigned now."

Keegan may be able to resurrect the club, but where can he take it? In the 2007/08 season, Newcastle had another miserable start, but he was able to guide them to 12th position by season's end. Can he do the same again? I believe with assurances from his new board of full player and managerial control, King Kev will be able to at least get Newcastle out of the relegation wasteland and then steer his ship in the right direction for the future.