Last image of Kevin Keegan as he instructed followers ‘I will not be strolling alone’

The world of football is in mourning after iconic manager Kevin Keegan died aged 75 following a battle with cancer. His family confirmed his death in a statement in which they called him a “much loved husband, father and grandfather”.

In the statement confirming his death, his family said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

“Kevin, a double Ballon D’or winner, was a much loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”

It had been confirmed back in January that the former Magpies, Manchester City and England boss was receiving cancer treatment. The announcement prompted an enormous wave of solidarity from the football world, especially from Keegan’s former clubs.

He was last seen in public during an appearance in Newcastle in May. During an appearance at the Tyne Theatre, the former England and Newcastle manager revealed to supporters that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer, the most severe form of the illness.

He told the audience: “They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got. Which is stage four cancer. He was a Liverpool supporter so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn’t be walking alone, if you know what I mean.”

Keegan, who also enjoyed a brilliant playing career that included spells at his cherished Magpies and Liverpool among others, recalled the moment when the doctor who delivered his diagnosis informed him of his impressive success rate against the condition.

He joked: “I said: ‘Fantastic! What is your strike rate?’ He said: ‘33%’. Oh. I thought he might say 80, maybe 90!”

Keegan also told the audience he wanted to return to St James’ Park for the first time since leaving his post in 2008 to wave to the crowd before a game. He said: “I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time.”

The football icon collected 63 England caps to his name, scoring 21 goals and playing at the 1982 World Cup. At Liverpool, he won three league titles, an FA Cup, a European Cup and two UEFA Cups. He also claimed a Bundesliga with Hamburg, and the Ballon d’Or, one of only four Englishmen to do so.

Southampton FC were among those paying tribute, posting: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. Kevin signed for the club in 1980 as the holder of the Ballon d’Or and brought great joy to fans at The Dell and across the football world. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Manchester City said: “Everyone at Manchester City is devastated to learn our former manager Kevin Keegan has passed away, aged 75. Kevin was a transformative manager who brought optimism and vibrancy to City during his four-year spell in charge.

“The promotion campaign in 2001/02 will never be forgotten, and Kevin then established us once again as a top Premier League side in the years that followed. Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”