Kevin Keegan has been battling cancer and a cruel hoax even falsely claimed he had just days to live, but the Liverpool legend has now made his first public appearance since his diagnosis
Kevin Keegan
Kevin Keegan appeared to be in fine form(Image: X/PeterGravesTV)
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Liverpool icon Kevin Keegan has jokingly declared he is "still alive" in his first public outing since revealing his cancer diagnosis. Earlier this year, another former club Newcastle United released a statement confirming the news.
Just months later, a malicious hoax circulated on social media falsely alleging he had only days remaining. The cruel rumour featured a fake quote, supposedly from the former Magpies boss, claiming he was hoping "to be at peace with my loved ones in these final days".
Fortunately, 75-year-old Keegan remains in excellent health, as was evident in a social media video recorded to promote an event at the Tyne Theatre. The ex-England boss is to discuss his career and life in a chat with Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves.
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Former Manchester City manager Keegan featured alongside Graves in the promotional footage, appearing well-presented and fit in a light grey suit combined with a navy blue shirt. He even made a playful reference to the hoax, replying: "Still alive, thank you," when Graves enquired how he was doing.
He also added: "Really looking forward to going to Newcastle, obviously. It's not my second home, it's my first home, really, as you know. When I'm going there, I'm always happy."
The sight of Reds legend Keegan in good health and positive spirits will delight football fans across every club. His appearance was confirmed five weeks beforehand, when Graves posted a video announcing all the information.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Former Liverpool player Kevin Keegan looks on prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Newcastle United at Anfield on December 26, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Kevin Keegan returned to the public eye with an event in Newcastle(Image: Jan Kruger, Getty Images)
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He said: "The King is back in Newcastle in May in just five weeks at the Tyne Theatre. Kev has been going through a really tough time.
"He's been very poorly but the great news is he has responded well to his treatment and he is feeling a lot better.
"He is not out of the woods yet, but he is feeling strong enough to come out and see people, see his fans and tell his stories and relive wonderful memories, which he enjoys doing so much.
"It is going to be an honour to host and I can't wait to welcome him out and let him hear the cheer of all the Geordies when he gets there."
When the false Facebook statement started spreading, Graves was quick to correct the misinformation, posting: "I can confirm that this statement is fake and not true. Kevin's treatment is underway and he is responding well!
"I'd like to remind everyone the family have requested privacy at this time. Kevin has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of well wishes and kindness from fans around the world."