Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer. The 74-year-old was recently hospitalised with ongoing abdominal symptoms.
Keegan scored 100 goals in 323 appearances for Liverpool, winning three league titles, a European Cup, two UEFA Cups, and an FA Cup.
He also played for Scunthorpe United, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle United, later managing Newcastle, Fulham, England, and Manchester City.
In a statement today, the Keegan family said: “Kevin 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 time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment.”
Tributes and messages of support have poured in from across the football world. Liverpool FC posted on X: “The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds are with Kevin Keegan after he was diagnosed with cancer.”
Newcastle United, where Keegan played in 1982 and managed between 1992–1997 and again in 2008, shared a message of support 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.”
Keegan earned 63 England caps, scoring 21 goals, and played at the 1982 World Cup, later captaining the national team. He was twice named European Footballer of the Year during his time at Hamburg and returned to England to play for Southampton and Newcastle, retiring in 1984.
Keegan was appointed England manager in 1999, following Glenn Hoddle’s departure. After a disappointing Euro 2000 campaign, he resigned following a defeat to Germany at Wembley, the final match at the stadium before its redevelopment.
Read more: 5 Liverpool players could miss Arsenal clash
BK Hacken goalkeeper officially joins Liverpool
Al-Ittifaq sign former Liverpool striker
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.