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Keegan dies at 75
English football icon Kevin Keegan has died aged 75, with his family confirming he had been battling cancer and Newcastle United saying the death was confirmed by the club overnight.
“In short: Football fans around the world are mourning the death of English icon Kevin Keegan at 75”
Keegan revealed in June that he had been dealing with stage four cancer, and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that he was undergoing cancer treatment without disclosing details of his illness.
Newcastle said in a statement, "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club's history," as tributes began to spread across football.
The Independent said Keegan was diagnosed with cancer in January, with his family announcing he was to receive treatment before he revealed in June that it was stage four.
The Independent also quoted a family statement saying, "It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75."
Tributes from Shearer
Alan Shearer, who played under Keegan with Newcastle and England, paid tribute on social media with the message, "My hero. My manager. My friend," and added "Sleep easy Boss."
Newcastle United described Keegan as "the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters," and the club said he "ignited our city" as it mourned his passing.
The Independent reported that Liverpool called Keegan a "bona fide superstar" and said, "Our 'Mighty Mouse', his legacy at Liverpool will be forever etched in history."
The Guardian also quoted Newcastle’s statement that, "Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters."
Prince William said he was "incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin Keegan," describing him as "a kind and generous man."
Legacy and what next
The Independent said Keegan was a double Ballon d’Or winner and that his career included four First Division titles with Liverpool, back-to-back Ballon d’Or titles in 1978 and 1979, and one FA Cup, one European Cup, two Uefa Cups and two Bundesliga titles.
“The world of sports is mourning after the death of a famous footballer who had won two Ballon d'Ors”
Newcastle said it would "carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy" as it sent condolences to Keegan’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
The Guardian reported that floral tributes were piling up outside St James’ Park as Newcastle fans paid their respects to Keegan, and Liverpool said his "indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history."
ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation | Other said Keegan was the only English player to win the Ballon d'Or twice, and it noted he was nicknamed "King Kev" and "Mighty Mouse."
The Guardian added that Keegan started his career at Scunthorpe before being signed for Liverpool by Bill Shankly for £33,000 in 1971, and it said he was twice named European Footballer of the Year.
