Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan has died at 75 after fighting stage four cancer.
His family confirmed the sad news on Monday. They said the football star was with his wife and daughters during his last moments.
“It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75,” the family statement said.
“The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
“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.”
In January, Keegan’s family announced he was diagnosed with stage four cancer and was getting ready to start treatment.
Keegan is seen as one of the greatest players of his time. He had an impressive playing career with almost 750 club appearances. He won three First Division titles with Liverpool, and he received back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 1978 and 1979 while playing for Hamburg in Germany.
On the international scene, he scored 21 goals in 63 games for England. He later managed the national team from 1999 to 2000.
Keegan also had a great run as a manager with Newcastle United. He changed the club's fortunes when he took charge in 1992, saving them from relegation. He then led them to the Premier League and made them title contenders. Later, he brought Manchester City back to the Premier League after winning the Division One title in 2002.
After his death was announced, Newcastle United paid tribute to him as one of the club’s most important figures.
“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.
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