Newcastle head coach Kevin Keegan during a Pre-season friendly game between Newcastle United and Valencia at St James’ Park on August 9, 2008 in Newcastle, United Kingdom.
Kevin Keegan has confirmed the devastating news he has stage four cancer.
The Newcastle icon's family revealed he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer in January, but the latest revelation provides a sobering update on his condition.
Newcastle United win the First Division. Manager Kevin Keegan on the open top bus waves to fans during the bus parade, 10th May 1993.2
Keegan is a favourite among Newcastle supporters
According to the Office for National Statistics, around 20 per cent of people with stage four stomach cancer survive for one year or more after their diagnosis.
However, Cancer Research UK does not have any five-year survival statistics for stage four stomach cancer patients because most unfortunately do not live that long.
The 75-year-old provided the heartbreaking news about his cancer during an event at the Tyne Theatre in Newcastle.
"They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got. Which is stage four cancer," Keegan said, per the Daily Mail.
"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 enjoyed two stints in charge of Newcastle, added he hopes to return to St James' Park next season for a proper farewell.
He took over the Magpies in 1992 and won promotion to the Premier League in his first full campaign before finishing second in the top flight during the 1995/96 season.
It marked Newcastle's highest league position since 1927.
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Keegan departed in 1997 but returned in 2008, although it proved to be an ill-fated stint as he departed after 22 games.
Given he left in unfortunate circumstances, Keegan is hopeful he can properly bid farewell to the Toon faithful at St James' Park at some stage in the 2026/27 season.
Kevin Keegan's actual name is Joseph Kevin Keegan2
Keegan led Newcastle for a total of 272 games
"I want to say goodbye," Keegan said.
"I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time…"
More to follow...