What Saints fans are saying about Kevin Keegan

Thousands took part in the Echo's online poll, with more than 70 per cent saying they would welcome him as manager.

Outside St Mary's Stadium, supporters were equally as enthusiastic at the prospect of Keegan returning to the club he signed for as European Player of the Year in 1980.

Office worker Ollie Gara, 23, from Polygon in Southampton said: "It would be good so long as we can get the money together and he doesn’t jump ship.

"What he could do is attract a few bigger names to the club and if he stuck around a bit, he could give the club that extra bit of stability."

Anna Novak, 24, from Bitterne Park, Southampton, said: "He is a very famous name. I think he would be a big success."

Student Simon Romsey, 17, from Bishop’s Waltham, said: "I’m guessing he could have a positive impact. He’s known as someone who can inspire the fans and players alike. He’s an old favourite and would give everyone a lift."

Nicky Rutt, 28, from Britannia Road, Southampton, said: "I think it would be one of the best things Saints have ever done. He’s a wonderful manager and has done amazing things with Newcastle in the past. It could be really positive for the team and the club."

Water engineer Mark Summers, 29, from Bristol, said: "It could be a really good appointment. He would inspire a lot more faith among supporters. He has always been successful when he’s had plenty of money to spend. I just hope that he would bring that belief back."

Nursery nurse April Masterman, 21, from Weston, said: "It could be great for Saints. Kev is a legend and it would be amazing to have him back at the club."

Nursery nurse Aparna Sharma, 25, from St Mary’s Road, Southampton, said: "I think it would be a big boost to the players and supporters. But sometimes having such a big name can end up being counterproductive."

Admin officer Alison Reilly, 48, from Emsworth, said: "It would be absolutely fantastic if we could get him back. He would drag us in to the 21st century and get us playing attractive football. He’s guaranteed to put a smile back on the players’ faces and would give them plenty of encouragement. Everybody loves him."

Admin manager Mary Mundye, 49, from Havant, said: "I’ve been a Saints fan all my life. I think it would be fabulous if Kev took up the reins.. I think he would be the right man for the job. He is so full of enthusiasm, which is just what we need."

Richard Marsh, 49, wife Jeannie, 51 and their son Lance, 12, all from Sherborne, Dorset.

"Keegan is a bit of a Messiah. He seems to spread a lot of good will around where he goes.

"If he came, he could give everybody a tremendous lift."

Retired Alan Belding, 64, from Wootton Bassett, said: "I think he would be good. He’s a big name and a huge character. I think if he was here, more fans would come along on match days to support the team."

School finance officer, Sue Fox, 38, from Hartley Wintney, said: "He would be an amazing addition down here. We desperately need someone to help galvanise team spirit.

"I just hope that he could act as the spur to take us back in to the top flight."

Nick Illingsworth, chairman of Saints Trust, said: "It is obviously a surprise for a lot of people. In league one you do not get many managers with the stature of Keegan and to think that Saints might have that excites a lot of people including me."