The club spoke out after days of speculation over Keegan's reasons for ending his eight-month spell in charge at St James' Park earlier this week, citing the part the board played in the Magpies' summer transfer dealings.

The statement said: "NUFC wished, at all times, to keep any dispute that it had with Kevin Keegan private.

"It is therefore disappointing that information has reached the media through unnamed sources and a briefing has been given by the League Managers Association that could give rise to a misleading impression amongst the club's fans.

"Newcastle United have no desire to engage in a war of words, but inaccurate reporting of factual matters and inaccurate allegations have to be corrected.

"It is a fact that Kevin Keegan, on appointment on January 16, 2008, agreed to report to a director of football and to the board.

"It is a fact that Kevin Keegan worked within that structure from January 16, 2008 until his resignation.

"It is a fact that Kevin Keegan, as manager, had specific duties in that he was responsible for the training, coaching, selection and motivation of the team.

"It is a fact that Kevin Keegan was allowed to manage his specific duties without any interference from any board member.

"It is a fact that Kevin Keegan agreed only to deal with the media in relation to club matters relating to the team and not to communicate with the media in relation to the acquisition or disposal of players.

"It is a fact that NUFC is a business and operates, like all businesses, with financial constraints.

"It is a fact that NUFC's financial constraints inform its transfer dealings.

"The board of NUFC have responsibility to ensure that the club is able to meet its commitments, which include the wages and the transfer fees for players.

"The structure at NUFC is clear, and has been clear from January 16, 2008."