Two-time European Footballer of the Year and LFC hero announces health battle
Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, his family has announced. The 74-year-old, who starred for The Reds in the 1970s, issued a statement today announcing his health battle.
The former England forward and manager was recently admitted to hospital due to “ongoing abdominal symptoms”. His family said in a statement: “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.”
Messages of support have since been shared from across the footballing world. In a post on X, Liverpool FC said: “The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds are with Kevin Keegan after he was diagnosed with cancer.”
Newcastle United, where Keegan played in 1982 and later managed between 1992 and 1997, before a further spell in 2008, posted a message on X.
The club said: “Our former player & manager, 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.”
Manchester City also posted on social media: “Sending our strength and love to Kevin and his family at this time.”
Former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer added his support on X, posting a prayer emoji alongside a black and white heart.
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.”
Jamie Carragher simply posted a red heart emoji under Liverpool FC’s post.
One of the finest players of his generation, Keegan, whose first names are Joseph Kevin, began his playing career with Scunthorpe before being signed by legendary Reds boss Bill Shankly. He enjoyed a glittering career at Anfield between 1971 and 1977, scoring 68 goals in 230 appearances and winning three first division titles, two UEFA Cups, and FA Cup and a European Cup.
His playing career would see him venture to Hamburg in Germany, where he was twice named European footballer of the year.
In 1992, Keegan made his first step into management at his former club Newcastle, guiding them into the Premier League and to within touching distance of the 1995/96 title only to miss out to Manchester United.
After leaving St James’ Park in January 1997, a brief stint at Fulham followed before he became England manager in 1999, having initially taken on the job following Glenn Hoddle’s departure.
Having overseen a disappointing Euro 2000 campaign, Keegan resigned on the back of defeat by Germany at Wembley Stadium, the last match at the national stadium before it was rebuilt.
A spell at Manchester City followed, but Keegan left the club in March 2005, initially announcing his retirement from football.
Keegan made an emotional return to Newcastle in 2008, but only lasted eight months following tensions with the board and owner Mike Ashley.
