The doctor told Kevin Keegan he had a tremendous strike rate at tackling the cancer that, last Christmas, left him floored, confined to bed and his family tearful.

The former England and Newcastle United manager joined presenter Pete Graves to advertise their appearance at the Tyne Theatre, scheduled for Sunday evening.

Newcastle United and England icon Kevin Keegan was diagnosed with cancer at the start of the year, and the 75-year-old has now made a rare public appearance

The former Newcastle player and manager hopes to return to St James’ Park next season