Kevin Keegan is open to return to Newcastle United, but only when the Premiership club has been sold, revealed League Managers Association chief executive Richard Bevan.

The 57-year-old had left the Tyneside club following less than eight months in charge, soon after the closure of summer transfer window due to differences with club hierarchy where he had little say in the transfer dealings with owner Mike Ashley having put in place a management structure to look after scouting and player recruitments.

In the aftermath of King Kev’s departure, the fans directed their ire at the Magpies owner and the executive director (football) Dennis Wise. Tony Jimenez, who on Thursday quit his Vice-president post, was also blamed by the supporters of the club and Keegan.

Newcastle are now for sale and several consortiums are reportedly interested in buying out Ashley’s stake, with Keegan, whose first stint as the Magpies boss was in the 90s, said to be ready to return to St James’ Park for the third time. Joe Kinnear is currently the interim manager of the Magpies, who are placed 18th in the league.

"Numerous people, including a group of Newcastle supporters, have contacted Kevin and myself saying, 'Would he be interested in coming back?'" said Bevan in The Sun.

"Kevin didn't want to leave. He has a great passion for the club.

"But the structure has to be right. He doesn't want to go through that again.

"Kevin can't make any decision until the club has been sold."