Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with stage four cancer, and the Liverpool and Newcastle legend has said that he wants to say goodbye to his beloved fans
Jeremy Armstong News Reporter
12:18, 02 Jun 2026
Kevin Keegan is battling cancer
Kevin Keegan is battling cancer(Image: Getty Images)
Kevin Keegan is planning to return to his cherished Newcastle to bid farewell following his stage four cancer diagnosis.
The Liverpool icon, affectionately known as 'King Kev,' received a standing ovation after revealing to a Newcastle audience: "They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got. Which is stage four cancer. He was a Liverpool supporter, so I knew I wouldn't be walking alone."
Earlier this year, Keegan's family disclosed his cancer battle. Following a "really tough time," the former England manager was well enough to make an appearance in Newcastle, the city he holds dear and where legions of fans revere him. On Sunday, he discussed his stage four diagnosis, the most severe stage of cancer, indicating the illness has metastasized to other areas of the body.
"I was in a car accident and, through that, I had to have an operation," he explained on stage at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House.
"The doc said, 'Kevin, this new treatment, I've got a tremendous strike rate.' I said, 'What's your strike rate?'
"He said, '33 percent.' I thought it would be 80 percent, 90 percent. 33 percent! I'm still here at the moment."
Keegan is one of Liverpool's greatest ever players
Keegan is one of Liverpool's greatest ever players(Image: Getty Images)
Throughout his distinguished playing career, Keegan represented Scunthorpe, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle.
He subsequently managed Newcastle, Fulham, England and Manchester City. He "wants to say goodbye," as he hasn't returned to watch Newcastle at St. James' Park since winning his case for constructive dismissal in 2009.
However, he admitted he is not yet ready for a statue to be erected in his honor at the ground.
"You will have to wait until I die, I'm afraid," he added. "I'm not against the statues that are outside. But it's not something that really means that much to me. My statue is the way you receive me."
Newcastle released a statement expressing its "heartfelt support" and "warmest wishes" to Keegan and his family following his diagnosis.
Article continues below
"Kevin holds a unique and cherished place in the history of Newcastle United, and in the hearts of our supporters," it read. "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 is widely regarded as one of England's greatest ever soccer players. During his playing career, he claimed three League titles, two UEFA Cups, and the FA Cup, before departing for Hamburg following Liverpool's European Cup triumph in 1977. He subsequently claimed the European Footballer of the Year award on two occasions.