Kevin Keegan, the former England and Newcastle manager, has revealed he has stage four cancer. The 75-year-old provided an update on his health during a weekend appearance at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, after his family had announced in January that he had been diagnosed with cancer.
“They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got, which is stage four cancer,” Keegan said, as reported by the Daily Mail. “He was a Liverpool supporter so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn’t be walking alone, if you know what I mean.”
Newcastle United’s Response
Newcastle United, where Keegan spent two years as a player before having two spells as manager, sent their best wishes to Keegan in a post on X on Monday, stating he would “always be warmly welcomed” at St James’ Park.
“We send our heartfelt support and warmest wishes to Kevin Keegan and his family following his recent diagnosis of stage four cancer,” the club said. “Kevin holds a unique and cherished place in the history of Newcastle, and in the hearts of our supporters. His passion, leadership and connection to the club and city have shaped some of our most memorable moments.
“Everyone at the club is behind Kevin and sends strength and best wishes to him and his family for the journey ahead. Kevin will always be warmly welcomed at St James’ Park and we hope to see him again soon.”
Keegan’s Illustrious Career
Keegan began his career with Scunthorpe and was signed by Liverpool in 1971, winning the First Division three times along with two Uefa Cups, the FA Cup and the European Cup in 1977. He won the Ballon d’Or twice while at Hamburg, where he also featured in another European Cup final, and played for Southampton and Newcastle before retiring in 1984. He scored 21 goals in 63 England appearances and played at the 1982 World Cup finals.
As a manager, Keegan took charge of Newcastle in 1992 and led them into the Premier League, where they came close to winning the 1995-96 title but missed out to Manchester United. He managed Fulham before becoming England manager in 1999, but resigned after a disappointing Euro 2000 campaign and a World Cup qualifying defeat by Germany. Keegan then managed Manchester City before leaving in March 2005, and returned to Newcastle in 2008 for an eight-month spell.
Speaking at the event, Keegan stated he would like to return to St James’ Park to say goodbye. He said: “I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time.”
