Ginola backs Keegan comeback

Former Newcastle star David Ginola believes Kevin Keegan could be persuaded to return to the club for a second spell as manager.

Keegan, who signed Ginola during his first stint at St James' Park, has refused to rule himself out of the running following Sam Allardyce's exit.

Asked about a potential return for the ex-England boss, Ginola told BBC Radio Five Live: "Why not?"

The Frenchman was part of the side that were on course to win the Premier League in 1996 before famously surrendering a 12-point lead in the title race.

"When I was there, we didn't achieve what we expected at the time," Ginola said.

"Kevin Keegan was the main reason I signed for the club. He really brought something special in terms of spirit.

"He really was the man for the job, especially at Newcastle.

"I learned a lot about how to respect everybody at the club and I am sure this is why he was so loved and appreciated."

Keegan, who quit his last job as Manchester City boss in March 2005, said in October he was unlikely to manage again.

But he has been linked with a return to the club where he was in charge from 1992-97 and told Sky Sports News today: "I'm not ruling myself out or in. It's a club I love, everyone knows that."