Remembering Kevin Keegan: Danny Tiatto calls it an honour

[Getty Images] Former Manchester City winger Danny Tiatto said it was an honour to play under the late Kevin Keegan, after the club announced on Monday that the former manager, who led City from 2001 to 2005, had died seven weeks after revealing a stage‑four cancer diagnosis.

Danny Tiatto spoke to BBC Radio Manchester, recalling the personal challenge of earning a place in Keegan’s side. He said the experience shaped his career and left a lasting impression.

"It was another challenge for Manchester City, and also for myself, to prove that I was good enough to play in his side. It was definitely an honour to play underneath him as a player," Tiatto told the broadcaster.

The Australian joined Manchester City in 1998 and remained until 2004, covering a period that included the club’s promotion campaign. His six‑year spell gave him ample time to work closely with Keegan.

Tiatto described Keegan as “very passionate as a manager” who arrived at training full of enthusiasm. Despite being a little older, Keegan would take part in shooting drills and small‑sided games, matching the players’ intensity.

According to Tiatto, Keegan wanted a side that would “entertain and score as many goals as possible”. He urged the team to play with the same passion he displayed as a footballer, shaping the club’s attacking identity.

Reflecting on the 2001‑02 promotion season, Tiatto said Keegan “signed a lot of good players” and the squad “outscored every team we played against week in, week out”. He added that Keegan gave belief, always arrived with a smile, wore his heart on his sleeve and was accommodating to everyone.