Trending 
Former England and Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan has disclosed that he is battling stage four cancer, sharing details of his diagnosis during a public appearance in Newcastle.
The 75-year-old football icon provided an update on his health at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House over the weekend, months after his family announced in January that he had been admitted to hospital for evaluation over “ongoing abdominal symptoms”.
Speaking candidly at the event, Keegan revealed the seriousness of his condition.
“They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got, which is stage four cancer,” Keegan said in comments reported by the Daily Mail.
Adding a touch of humour to the difficult situation, the former England captain recalled meeting the specialist handling his treatment.
“He was a Liverpool supporter so I went to meet him,” he said.
The news has drawn an outpouring of support from the football community, including Premier League club Newcastle United, where Keegan remains one of the most influential figures in the club’s history.
In a message posted on X, Newcastle said it was sending its “heartfelt support and warmest wishes” to Keegan and his family.
“Everyone at the club is behind Kevin and sends strength and best wishes to him and his family for the journey ahead,” the club wrote.
Keegan enjoyed a glittering playing career, first rising to prominence after joining Liverpool under legendary manager Bill Shankly in 1971. During his time at Anfield, he won three league titles and the 1977 European Cup before moving to Hamburg, where he was twice named European Footballer of the Year.
He later returned to England for spells with Southampton and Newcastle, earning 63 caps and scoring 21 goals while also captaining the national side.
As a manager, Keegan led Newcastle United on two separate occasions and also managed Fulham, Manchester City and England.
Reflecting on his bond with Newcastle supporters, Keegan said he hopes to return to St James’ Park for a proper farewell.
“I want to say goodbye,” he said. “I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time.”
