England, Liverpool and Newcastle legend Kevin Keegan has died aged 75 after a battle with cancer – his family has announced in an emotional statement
England, Liverpool and Newcastle legend Kevin Keegan has died aged 75 after a battle with cancer.
His sad passing was confirmed in a statement from his family: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.
“Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments. A double Ballon D’or winner, Kevin 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 was revealed back in January that the former Magpies, Manchester City and England boss was receiving cancer treatment.
Speaking at an event in Newcastle, Keegan opened up about his condition: “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.”
Having managed the club twice, Keegan confirmed he wanted to return to St James’ Park for the first time since leaving his post in 2008 to wave to the crowd prior to a game.
“I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time,” he told the crowd.
Keegan is an icon in the footballing world – he has 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. While he also claimed a Bundesliga with Hamburg, and the Ballon d’Or, one of only four Englishmen to do so.
As a manager he delivered one of English football’s most iconic moments as he launched into his now famous “I would love it if we beat them” rant aimed at Sir Alex Ferguson.
His Newcastle side would throw away a 13-point lead and lost the Premier League title to the Red Devils in 1996. He was adopted Geordie, but after quitting the club in 2008 vowed to never return while Mike Ashley was still in charge.
He also took charge of the Three Lions, replacing Glenn Hoddle in 1999. However after a lacklustre Euro 2000 and losing his first 2002 World Cup qualifier, Keegan resigned.
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