Kevin Keegan Diagnosed with Cancer, Undergoing Treatment

Former England forward and manager Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, as confirmed by his former club Newcastle United on January 7, 2024. The Premier League club stated that Keegan, aged 74, was recently admitted to hospital for evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms, leading to the cancer diagnosis. He is set to begin treatment soon.

Keegan’s remarkable career includes significant achievements both as a player and manager. He enjoyed a successful playing career with Liverpool and Hamburg, winning multiple trophies. Notably, he secured three First Division titles and a European Cup with Liverpool, along with two UEFA Cups and an FA Cup. After his time in England, he moved to Germany, where he won the Bundesliga with Hamburg and was recognized as a two-time European Footballer of the Year.

His return to England saw him play for Southampton before joining Newcastle, where he later became a manager. Keegan’s managerial career at Newcastle included two spells, during which he led the team to a near-miss for the Premier League title in the 1995-96 season, finishing as runners-up to Manchester United after leading the table for much of the campaign.

Keegan also had a brief stint as manager of the England national team, taking over from Glenn Hoddle in 1999. His tenure was marked by disappointment, as he could not advance the team beyond the group stage at Euro 2000. He departed later that year after a loss to Germany in the final match played at the old Wembley Stadium.

Throughout his club career, Keegan made 592 league appearances, scoring an impressive 204 goals. He earned 63 caps for England, netting 21 goals and captaining the national side on 31 occasions. Known affectionately as “King Kev,” his contributions to football have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Keegan’s diagnosis has prompted an outpouring of support from fans, former teammates, and football organizations across the globe. As he begins his treatment, the football community remains hopeful for his recovery.