Decision due on Keegan’s claim

Oct 2 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

NEWCASTLE United expect to discover later today whether they have to make a multi-million pound payment to former manager Kevin Keegan.

Keegan is seeking damages of around £9m for constructive dismissal following his controversial departure in September 2008, although United owner Mike Ashley has counter-sued for breach of contract.

An FA arbitration panel is now due to deliver its verdict.

The panel heard statements from both sides over a two-week period last month, but refused to rule on the matter until it had been given time to consider all of the evidence presented. Keegan claims he was forced to quit as he did not have any control over transfer policy, while Ashley insists he had agreed to work as part of a specific management team, which spread responsibility in this area to include former head of recruitment Tony Jimenez and executive director (football) Dennis Wise.

Reports last week stating that Keegan was seeking as much as £25m in a settlement are incorrect and the resolution of the saga should come as a relief to supporters, whatever decision is reached.