Newcastle United and Liverpool great Kevin Keegan has died aged 75.The former England manager and forward disclosed in January that he had been diagnosed with cancer. Keegan had been suffering from abdominal problems following a car accident and went into hospital for tests last year, which revealed an unspecified type of cancer.In May, during an appearance at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle, Keegan told the audience that he had stage-four cancer, the most advanced stage of the disease, meaning it had spread to other parts of his body.Keegan managed Newcastle twice and also played for them, while he won three First Division titles with Liverpool during the 1970s and twice received the Ballon d’Or award for the best player in the world while at Bundesliga outfit Hamburg.He scored 21 goals in 63 games for England, who he also captained and then managed between 1999 and 2000.His death was confirmed in a statement from his family on Monday.“It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75,” the statement read.“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.”(Graham Turner/Keystone/Getty Images)In June, Newcastle offered an open invitation for Keegan to return, given he had not been back officially since leaving the club in 2008, saying: “Kevin will always be warmly welcomed at St James’ Park and we hope to see him again soon.”On Monday, Newcastle said in a statement: “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.“Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.“As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be. 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. He was so much more than an Entertainer.“Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.“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.“At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.“Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy. Rest in peace, King Kev.”Keegan started his playing career at Scunthorpe United and made almost 600 league appearances for six separate clubs, also representing Southampton and Blacktown City in Australia.After retiring, Keegan almost led Newcastle to the Premier League title in 1995-96 during his first managerial role, having saved the club from relegation to the third tier before taking them up to the top flight.After another promotion with Fulham, Keegan took over the England role but resigned in October 2000 following a World Cup qualifying loss to Germany. A four-year stint at Manchester City followed, where he led the club to promotion to the Premier League, before an emotional but ultimately ill-fated return to Newcastle in 2008 under Mike Ashley’s ownership.Jul 20, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms