Joe Kinnear’s time at Newcastle was marked by laughter and mockery, adding discomfort for those familiar with football history. Amidst his spells at the club, Kinnear disregarded a press officer’s request to keep a six-minute, profanity-laden tirade off the record. Moreover, his return as Director of Football was marred by name mix-ups, such as Charles N’Zogbia being called “Charles Insomnia”. The upheaval at Newcastle in 2008-09, with Kevin Keegan being ousted and a confidant of Mike Ashley installed as chief, caused unease among those who understood Kinnear’s remarkable career.

Rising from a council estate in Watford, Kinnear had an illustrious playing career at Spurs and managed Wimbledon to a remarkable sixth-place finish in the 1993-94 season. Kinnear’s confrontational approach harkened back to a different era, typified by fiery exchanges between managers and journalists. His actions at Newcastle reflect a clash between the traditional, outspoken manager and the increasingly stage-managed Premier League era. Despite his tumultuous tenure at Newcastle, Kinnear’s extraordinary football life, achievements, and personal resilience should be the focus of his legacy.

His passing from dementia serves as a reminder of his humanity beyond the football world, including his experiences with family tragedy and coping with illness. In honor of Joe Kinnear, a four-time major trophy winner and football figure, his lasting contributions to the game should be celebrated above all else.