Former England captain Keegan dies at 75 after cancer battle

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 following a battle with stage four cancer

His family confirmed his death in a statement on Monday, saying the football legend was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.

“It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments,” the statement read.

“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.ddd

Keegan’s family had announced in January that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer and was preparing to begin treatment. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, Keegan enjoyed a glittering playing career spanning almost 750 club appearances. He won three First Division titles with Liverpool before claiming back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 1978 and 1979 while playing for German club Hamburg. At international level, he scored 21 goals in 63 appearances for England and later managed the national team between 1999 and 2000.

Keegan also enjoyed a successful managerial career with Newcastle United, where he transformed the club after taking charge in 1992, steering them away from relegation before leading them to the Premier League and turning them into title challengers. He later guided Manchester City back to the Premier League after winning the Division One title in 2002.

Following the announcement of his death, Newcastle United paid tribute to one of the most influential figures in the club’s history. “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply-loved figures in our club’s history,” the club said.

“Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters. As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world.

“Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him. Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history… Rest in Peace, King Kev,” the club added.