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Liverpool FC## Liverpool paid tribute to Kevin Keegan before their pre-season friendly against Sunderland after the former Liverpool player sadly died on Monday following a battle with cancer
23:28, 25 Jul 2026Updated 23:28, 25 Jul 2026
Liverpool paid tribute to Kevin Keegan prior to kick-off against Sunderland
Liverpool paid tribute to Kevin Keegan prior to kick-off against Sunderland(Image: LFC/X)
Liverpool paid tribute to club legend Kevin Keegan ahead of the Reds first pre-season friendly against Sunderland.
The ex-England manager sadly passed away on Monday at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer. Each Liverpool player is wearing a black armband to honor Keegan with digital tributes being displayed on the screen while a minutes silence was also impeccably observed ahead of the game in Nashville.
Keegan’s impact as a player, manager and figure within the game will leave a lasting legacy, with those who worked alongside him across his career remembering his influence both on and off the pitch.
Recognized for his attacking ability, Keegan was signed by Liverpool manager Bill Shankly in 1971, beginning a spell that would become the most defining period of his career. During his six years at Anfield, he helped the club win three First Division titles, two UEFA Cups, two FA Charity Shields, one FA Cup and one European Cup.
Keegan’s individual achievements were equally remarkable, with the forward winning the Ballon d’Or in consecutive years in 1978 and 1979 to cement his place as the world’s best player at the time. His Liverpool career was filled with iconic moments, including his two goals in the 1974 FA Cup final victory over Newcastle and strikes in both legs of the 1976 UEFA Cup final.
Keegan’s influence extended beyond Liverpool, with his legacy also firmly established at clubs such as Newcastle United. He also played a significant role with the England national team, making an impact both during his playing career and later as manager.
Keegan announced his cancer diagnosis in January, and last month revealed that the illness had progressed to stage four. His family later confirmed his passing through a statement, which said: "It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
Pundits Kevin Keegan and John Barnes look on after the FA Cup with Budweiser Final between Manchester City and Wigan Athletic
Former Liverpool player Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75(Image: (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images))
"A double Ballon d’Or winner, Kevin 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."
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Liverpool also paid tribute to the legend with a statement that said: "Liverpool FC is deeply saddened and mourning the passing of the legendary Kevin Keegan."
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Kevin's family and friends at this hugely difficult time," the statement continued. It concluded by saying: "Our 'Mighty Mouse,' his legacy at Liverpool will be forever etched in history. Rest in peace, Kevin Keegan."
Following the announcement of Keegan’s death, tributes poured in from across the soccer world, with former clubs, teammates, players and supporters paying their respects to a figure who left a lasting impact on the game. Among those to honor Keegan’s legacy was fellow Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, who reflected on his admiration for a player who helped pave the way during his own time at Anfield.
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