English football legend Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, his family confirmed in a statement. The former Newcastle and England manager, 74, was recently admitted to hospital due to “ongoing abdominal symptoms” and further investigation revealed a diagnosis of cancer.
The Keegan family issued a statement which read: “Kevin Keegan was recently admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms. These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment. Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care. During this difficult time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment.”
Newcastle led the messages to their iconic former player and manager, writing on social media: “Kevin Keegan will undergo treatment after being diagnosed with cancer having been admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms. King Kev. We’re with you every step of the way. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery.”
Keegan, also a Liverpool icon, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, winning three First Divisions, two UEFA Cups, an FA Cup and a European Cup during his time at Anfield.
The Reds issued a statement: “The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds are with Kevin Keegan after he was diagnosed with cancer.
“A legendary former Reds player, Keegan scored 100 goals in 323 appearances during a six-year spell at Anfield, with his honours at the club including three league titles, a European Cup, two UEFA Cups and an FA Cup.
“All of us at LFC and official former players association Forever Reds send our best wishes to Kevin, his family and friends.”
Fulham, one of the clubs Keegan managed during his illustrious career, wrote: “Everyone at Fulham would like to send best wishes to Kevin. Stay strong and good luck in your recovery.”
He is the only Englishman in history to win the Ballon d’Or twice.
After scoring over 200 goals in his career for Liverpool, Scunthorpe United, Hamburg, Southampton, Newcastle and Blacktown City, Keegan turned to management and took his first job at Newcastle.
In his first full season, he took Newcastle to the Premier League and then the following year, finished second in the table.
After five years at St James’ Park, Keegan took over at Fulham and then became England manager.
However, he lasted less than a year in the job, resigning in October 2000 following a 1-0 defeat to Germany during the qualification stage for the 2002 World Cup.
He then became Manchester City manager, where he stayed for four years before resigning and ending his managerial career back at Newcastle. Though he spent just eight months in the job, resigning after a fall-out with club chiefs and owner Mike Ashley.