Two-time European Footballer of the Year and LFC hero announces health battle
Former Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan
Former Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan(Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
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Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, his family has announced. The 74-year-old, who starred for The Reds in the 1970s, issued a statement today announcing his health battle.
The former England forward and manager was recently admitted to hospital due to "ongoing abdominal symptoms".
His family said in a statement: "Kevin Keegan was recently admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms. These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment.
"Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care.
"During this difficult time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment."
Kevin Keegan during his Liverpool playing days
Kevin Keegan during his Liverpool playing days(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Tributes and messages of support have since been shared from across the footballing world. Newcastle United, where Keegan played in 1982 and later managed between 1992 and 1997, before a further spell in 2008, posted a message on X.
The club said: "Our former player & manager, Kevin Keegan will undergo treatment after being diagnosed with cancer having been admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms.
"King Kev. We're with you every step of the way. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery."
One of the finest players of his generation, Keegan, whose first names are Joseph Kevin, began his playing career with Scunthorpe before being signed by legendary Reds boss Bill Shankly. He enjoyed a glittering career at Anfield between 1971 and 1977, scoring 68 goals in 230 appearances and winning three first division titles, two UEFA Cups, and FA Cup and a European Cup.
His playing career would see him venture to Hamburg in Germany, where he was twice named European footballer of the year.
He also enjoyed a high-profile managerial career, taking charge of Newcastle United twice, Fulham, Manchester City and even the England national team for a short spell in 1999.