Ahead of today’s mammoth clash against Manchester United, where a win could see us complete our first league double over the Red Devils in 94 years, many fans have directed their attention elsewhere off the pitch.

Popular fan group Wor Flags has arranged for a special pre-match flag display dedicated to Kevin Keegan, but the tribute hasn’t gone down well with some members of the fan base; who want an Eddie Howe tribute instead as he misses the game through illness.

In response to the criticism, Wor Flags themselves have now released a statement addressing some of the concerns fans have had.

Wor Flags issue statement

On Sunday morning, Wor Flags themselves issued a statement on their social media channels, which you can read in full below.

“We appreciate the messages we’ve received since yesterday evening regarding today’s display.”

“Hundreds of hours have gone into creating it, and in the short time frame there’s no way we can pull it, it would also mean so much wasted material that fans have paid for.”

“As much as we celebrate the present, we fondly remember the past and salute those who will always have a lasting impact on our club and our fans.”

“King Kev set the standards for Newcastle United as both player and manager, and today we pay homage to the legend.”

“We’re sure Eddie Howe would agree that a massive atmosphere is needed throughout the 90.

“Get into them Newcastle, HOWAY THE LADS!”

We appreciate the messages we’ve received since yesterday evening regarding today’s display.

Hundreds of hours have gone into creating it, and in the short time frame there’s no way we can pull it, it would also mean so much wasted material that fans have paid for.

As much as… pic.twitter.com/uAkgelBVmL

— Wor Flags 🏴🏳 (@worflags) April 13, 2025

What are the fans’ concerns?

Despite King Kev’s iconic status on Tyneside, thanks to his heroics both on the pitch and in the dugout, the decision to do a full tribute ahead of the Manchester United game seems to have irked some when he won’t be present.

Criticism centres around how the display was originally meant to be presented five months ago before the 3-3 draw against Liverpool and he fact Keegan himself isn’t expected to be at St James’ Park on Sunday.

Additionally, with the recent breaking news that Eddie Howe wouldn’t be well enough to coach, many have felt the tribute to a former manager should have been pulled out of respect for the current boss. But that seems an unfair complaint given the short notice.

The right decision?

Regardless of whether Keegan is or isn’t present for Sunday afternoon’s fixture, the idea that a fan group should only put on a display depending on his rumoured attendance seems absurd, especially considering the exceptional work that the likes of Wor Flags do for the matchday atmosphere.

The response from Wor Flags has been met positively online, with many now hoping the group can quickly put together a display in support of Howe upon the gaffer’s return from illness; hopefully on Wednesday night.

The content of any displays, past or present or future, shouldn’t really matter at a time like this before such a monumental game with huge ramifications for us: all that should matter is that the supporters unite and back the team to give them that added edge that no other team in the league can give their players.