Kevin Keegan dead at 75: Football legend passes away following battle with cancer
By OLLIE LEWIS, DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR
Published: 10:24 EDT, 20 July 2026 \| Updated: 10:36 EDT, 20 July 2026
Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 after a short battle with illness.
The England and Newcastle legend was diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer in January, having been admitted to hospital with abdominal problems.
Keegan made his name at Liverpool in a glittering playing career. He won 63 England caps and also managed Fulham and Manchester City.
He guided Newcastle to the Premier League during the first of two stints at St James' Park and came close to lifting the title, only to be pipped by Manchester United.
In a statement, his family said: 'It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.
'The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
'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 was admitted to hospital due to 'ongoing abdominal symptoms', a statement from his family said in January.
'These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment,' it added.
Speaking in May in his first public outing since his cancer diagnosis, Keegan told the audience he was responding well to treatment after being assured ''we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got'.
'He [the doctor] was a Liverpool supporter, so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn't be walking alone, if you know what I mean.'
After starting his career at Scunthorpe, Keegan headed to Anfield where he won the First Division three times, the European Cup once and the UEFA Cup twice.
He enjoyed a stint in Germany with Hamburg before spells at Southampton and Newcastle.
In 1999 Keegan succeeded Glenn Hoddle as England boss but resigned in 2000 following a disappointing European Championship and a loss to Germany in the final match at the old Wembley.
He would go on to oversee promotions to the top flight for both Fulham and City.