Kevin Keegan back at Newcastle United. Would you believe it? Well, even in this crazy world that is football, I would. And the Geordie nation will be rejoicing this evening, the sales of Newcastle Brown going through the roof.

When Kevin was at St James’ Park before, from 1992 to 1997, he rejuvenated a city, gave everyone hope and excitement. You never quite knew what you would get from the team but, more often than not, you were entertained.

OK, this time, it could take a while to knock Newcastle back into shape. There is some serious surgery to be done, certainly in the defence department and central midfield. And there is very little time left in the transfer window.

But what Mike Ashley, the owner, will get is a return of the verve and passion that has been missing for many years. Keegan was a fan who became the manager, his love of the club was and still is insatiable and he will attempt to revive many a dream.

Sure, the guy is a bit of a mystery, an enigma. He can throw his toys out of the pram at the slightest perceived slur. Remember his “I’d love it” rant at Sir Alex Ferguson and his dramatic walk-out on England?

And his tactical acument will undoubtedly be questioned again.

Does he really know how to organise a back-four? Does he have any comprehension of how to retain a lead? His old gung-ho approach should be deleted from his memory.

Yet Kevin lives and breathes football. It’s his buzz, his drug, and he has clearly missed it. He might have a few more grey hairs but he will get the place rocking again. And that’s just what the supporters want.

For most of this season, under Sam Allardyce, all the fans have been doing is chewing gum and looking around at each other in disbelief. Ashley, too, when he has joined them in the stands and sat stupefied in his black-and-white shirt.

OK, it could all end in tears again. That’s Newcastle for you, that’s the way it is on Tyneside. Either way, it will be emotional. Keegan wears his heart on his sleeve like few others. But even if it turns out to be another roller-coaster, it will be a great ride.

Hang on to your hats. The Messiah is back.