Kevin Keegan announced in January that he was undergoing treatment for cancer, and the former Liverpool and Newcastle legend has now shared the stage of his diagnosis after making his first public appearance
11:14, 01 Jun 2026Updated 11:18, 01 Jun 2026
Kevin Keegan was diagnosed earlier this year
Kevin Keegan was diagnosed earlier this year(Image: Getty Images)
Kevin Keegan revealed to supporters that he is battling stage four cancer during a public appearance in Newcastle at the weekend.
News emerged in January that the former Newcastle and Manchester City boss was undergoing cancer treatment. The announcement prompted widespread messages of solidarity from across the soccer world, with Newcastle releasing a statement from the 75-year-old and his family.
Keegan, who is widely regarded as one of Liverpool's greatest ever players, seemed in positive form in a short video clip before making his first public outing since the diagnosis at the weekend at the Tyne Theatre in Newcastle, where he reflected on his career.
During that engagement, Keegan disclosed additional information about his condition, informing those present he has stage four cancer, the most severe stage of the illness.
According to the Daily Mail, Keegan said: "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 is one of Liverpool's greatest ever players
Keegan is one of Liverpool's greatest ever players(Image: Getty Images)
Keegan, whose distinguished playing days included spells at his cherished Newcastle and Liverpool among other clubs, was in fine fettle throughout the occasion.
He jokingly recounted the instance when the physician treating him shared his remarkable success rate against the condition. Keegan joked: "I said, 'Fantastic! What is your strike-rate?' He said, '33 percent.' Oh. I thought he might say 80, maybe 90! Anyway, I am still here at the moment..."
Having managed the club twice, Keegan confirmed he wants to return to St. James' Park for the first time since leaving his post in 2008 to wave to the crowd prior to a game, if possible, pointing out he did not previously get the chance to do so when he left.
"I want to say goodbye. I didn't get the chance when I left the club last time," he shared with those gathered.
A two-time Ballon d'Or winner, Keegan ranks amongst England's finest ever soccer players.
Article continues below
He turned out 85 times for Newcastle before taking charge in 1992, winning more than half his 251 matches as manager and narrowly missing out on Premier League glory. His second spell came in 2008.
Despite his legendary standing, Keegan maintains he doesn't want a statue erected at St. James' Park, remarking: "You will have to wait until I die. My statue is the way people receive me."
Keegan won several trophies at Liverpool before joining Hamburg and handing the No. 7 shirt over to Sir Kenny Dalglish, including three league titles and the European Cup.