🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Newcastle and Liverpool to honor Kevin Keegan before Premier League opener
via Punch Nigeria9 min read
Newcastle United and Liverpool are planning a special tribute for club legend Kevin Keegan before their Premier League opening fixture at St James’ Park. The tribute follows Keegan's death at 75 after battling stage-four cancer. Both clubs are in discussions to honor Keegan's contributions when they meet on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Newcastle confirmed it is working with Liverpool, supporter groups, and the Premier League to ensure a fitting farewell for the former England captain and manager. Keegan had successful spells as a player at Liverpool, winning multiple titles, and later managed Newcastle, guiding them to Premier League promotion and a second-place finish. Newcastle has already announced several tributes, including black armbands for teams, a minute's silence before a friendly, and displaying Keegan's image at St James’ Park. The main tribute will occur in the seventh minute of the match, recognizing his jersey number. The club will also consult Keegan’s family regarding a permanent tribute.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Arsenal is reportedly preparing a £70m offer for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes to strengthen their midfield for the upcoming season. The Brazil international is a priority target for the Premier League champions, who aim to add quality and experience to their squad. Guimaraes is believed to be open to joining Arsenal, and Newcastle is aware of his preference for the North London club. While talks have intensified, it is uncertain if the £70m bid will be sufficient for Newcastle to release their captain. Arsenal is maintaining a strict approach to transfer valuations, unwilling to exceed their assessment of a player's worth, as seen with their previous interest in Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers, where they refused to match Chelsea’s £117m offer. Arsenal is also prioritizing defensive reinforcements, with Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as their first-choice target, and has made inquiries about his availability. Como defender Jacobo Ramon is also on their shortlist, though contract clause complications could hinder a deal. After failing to sign Rogers, Arsenal is still seeking attacking additions, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez considered a dream target, despite potential cost and his reported preference for Barcelona. The Gunners have also explored a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as manager Mikel Arteta continues to build a competitive squad.
An Enugu Air Embraer regional jet experienced a runway excursion after landing at the Benin Airport on Thursday. The airline confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without any injuries or casualties. The incident involved one of Enugu State-owned carrier’s aircraft, which had recently been introduced into its fleet for commercial operations. Enugu Air has notified the relevant aviation authorities and an assessment of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence is underway. The airline stated that the incident might lead to temporary adjustments in some flight schedules, and affected passengers will be contacted directly. The cause of the runway excursion has not yet been determined, and aviation authorities are expected to investigate the incident.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called for sustained investment in reforms, strategic capacity development, and digital transformation within Nigeria's public service. Speaking at the 48th Meeting of the National Council on Establishments in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara emphasized the need for public institutions to be agile, digitally enabled, accountable, and driven by excellence to meet 21st-century demands. He highlighted that public service is the engine room of government, translating policies into tangible programs and delivering essential services. Fubara stressed that a competent, motivated, and efficient public service is crucial for sustainable development, institutional effectiveness, and good governance. He urged the National Council on Establishments to develop practical recommendations to strengthen institutional capacity, promote transparency, deepen professionalism, and improve productivity across the Nigerian Public Service. The governor also detailed Rivers State's commitment to public servant welfare, including prompt salary payments, pensions, gratuities, Christmas bonuses, and regular promotions, alongside the renovation of the State Secretariat Complex to provide a modern working environment. He commended Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, for her leadership and transformative reforms.