The former Liverpool player was battling stage-four cancer
Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan
Kevin Keegan has died(Image: Getty Images)
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Former Liverpool player Kevin Keegan has died aged 75. The death of the former Reds star comes a month after it was revealed he was battling stage-four cancer.
In a statement, as reported by Sky News, 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."
Earlier this year, his family said he was receiving treatment for "ongoing abdominal symptoms".
Keegan, who also played for Newcastle United, made his final public appearance last month in the north east.
During that public appearance, Keegan is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail: "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 went to meet him. I knew I wouldn't be walking alone, if you know what I mean."
Keegan also revealed he planned to return to St. James' Park for the first time since he departed in 2008 to say a proper goodbye to Newcastle United supporters.
He told the audience: "I want to say goodbye. I didn't get the chance when I left the club last time…"
Keegan is one of the most decorated English players of all time, winning the Ballon d'Or twice.
He made 85 appearances for Newcastle before returning to manage the club, first in 1992. He won over half of his 251 games at the helm and came close to winning the Premier League. His second stint in the dugout was in 2008.
Despite his revered status, Keegan insisted he didn't want a statue at St James' Park. He said: "You will have to wait until I die. My statue is the way people receive me."
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