Keegan worked with Woodgate when he was England boss (Getty)

Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan is refusing to dwell on missing out on a deal for Jonathan Woodgate after the England defender opted to join Tottenham.

Keegan was keen on signing the former Magpies and Real Madrid man but fully understood the player's decision.

He told BBC Look North: "When I look at the whole thing, I think Jonathan Woodgate made a commitment already.

"I know Jonathan very well. I think the lad made a promise already, gave his word, and it's to his credit."

News conference: Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan

Newcastle are yet to bring in new blood but Keegan has continued to emphasise that he will not rush into adding to his squad.

Woodgate facts Keegan gave Woodgate his first England cap against Bulgaria in 1999 The defender has played for Newcastle United, making 37 appearances in all competitions Woodgate's combined transfer fees add up to more than �28m

He said: "We did say at the start unless we could get quality players in that will better us we won't get any in.

"There's plenty here to work with, there's enough ability in this club to take this club forward and then we've got look for little bits of the jigsaw that'll take us on at a pace."