Kevin Keegan, the former England player and manager, has died at the age of 75. His family announced the news on Monday. Keegan had been battling stage four cancer.
The family statement said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. 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.”
Keegan played for Liverpool from 1971 to 1977. He appeared in 323 matches and scored 100 goals for the club. During that time, Liverpool won three First Division titles, the FA Cup, two UEFA Cups, and the European Cup in 1977. He later played for Hamburg, where he won the Ballon d’Or in 1978 and 1979. He also played for Southampton and Newcastle United as a player.
Keegan earned 63 caps for England and scored 21 goals. He served as captain of the national team. After his playing career, he managed Newcastle United, Fulham, Manchester City, and the England national team from 1999 to 2000.
Keegan was born on February 14, 1951. He began his professional career at Scunthorpe United before joining Liverpool. He became known for his energy and skill on the pitch. As a manager, he guided Newcastle United to promotion and a strong challenge for the Premier League title in the mid 1990s.
The announcement comes after Keegan had spoken publicly about his cancer diagnosis earlier this year. He had said he was responding well to treatment at that time. Tributes from football clubs and former teammates have started to appear following the family statement.