Kevin Keegan revealed that he is battling stage four cancer during a public appearance in Newcastle over the weekend. It emerged back in January that the former Magpies, Manchester City and England boss was undergoing treatment for cancer. The announcement prompted a wave of goodwill from the football world, especially from Keegan's previous clubs, with Newcastle confirming the development by releasing a statement from the 75-year-old and his family.
Keegan appeared in high spirits during a short video ahead of his first public outing over the weekend at the Tyne Theatre to reflect on his career. It was during that occasion that Keegan disclosed further information about his diagnosis, informing fans he is battling stage four cancer, the most serious stage of the illness.
Keegan is quoted as saying by The 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, who also enjoyed a distinguished playing career which saw him turn out for his cherished Magpies and Liverpool amongst others, was on sparkling form throughout the event.
He jokingly recounted the moment that the medic who delivered his diagnosis informed him of his remarkable success rate against the condition. Keegan joked: "I said: 'Fantastic! What is your strike rate?' He said: '33 per cent". Oh. I thought he might say 80, maybe 90! Anyway, I am still here at the moment..."