Kevin Keegan is set to make an emotional return to Tyneside later this year with the legendary Newcastle United boss revealing he is ready for a "special" trip.

Newcastle used Keegan to tease the reissue of the famous Entertainers shirt last week with the items going up for sale on Thursday. Much was made about Keegan returning to St James' Park for a match with a breathtaking Wor Flags display parked before the recent 3-3 draw with Liverpool.

Chronicle Live understands that head coach Eddie Howe has made it clear that Keegan has an open invite to visit the training ground or take in a game whenever he wants. Keegan has yet to commit to any plans but wanted to make his first visit of 2025 a worthwhile affair by raising funds for NSPCC and the Tiny Lives Trust charities.

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Keegan said: "Newcastle has always been special to me. The fans, the city, the unwavering love for the game - it’s unlike anything else. To be part of an evening dedicated to helping the NSPCC, Tiny Lives and the most vulnerable among us is truly meaningful. It’s going to be a night filled with laughs, stories, and most importantly, generosity."

Event organiser Terry Sweeney, a former manager and committee member of the legendary Wallsend Boys Club, said, "Newcastle is a city with football running through its veins, and there’s no one who embodies that passion more than Kevin Keegan. We wanted to create an evening that celebrates our love for Newcastle United while giving back to the region. The NSPCC and Tiny Lives Trust do extraordinary work for our community.”

The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) is the UK’s leading children’s charity, dedicated to preventing abuse and protecting children from harm. With services ranging from direct support for children and families to the operation of Childline and campaigning for policy change, the NSPCC relies on public donations to continue its critical work.

Hayley Lynn, North East fundraiser for the NSPCC, added: "The generosity of events like this one ensures that we can continue our critical work protecting vulnerable children in our region. Newcastle has always had a huge heart, and this event is a perfect example of our community coming together to make a difference. We’re beyond grateful to Terry, Les, and everyone involved."

Keegan will be on stage at The Grand Hotel in Gosforth on Friday, February 28, 2025. Tickets cost £50. To book a place, contact Les Hancock on 07779841293 or Terry Sweeney on 07968 126622.

The evening, organised by local fundraisers and passionate NUFC supporters in Mr Hancock and Mr Sweeney, will include a two-course meal, an auction, and a raffle. Every penny raised will go to support the NSPCC and the Tiny Lives Trust, making a real difference to children and families.

The Tiny Lives Trust, meanwhile, is a local charity that touches the lives of over 800 premature and ill newborn babies and their families annually, providing essential emotional, practical, and financial support to families at the Neonatal Unit of the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI). Their dedication ensures that families facing the unimaginable receive the care and comfort they desperately need.