Former England captain and football legend Kevin Keegan has disclosed that he is battling stage four cancer, the most advanced stage of the disease, which occurs when cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Key Highlights:
- Kevin Keegan revealed he has stage four cancer.
- The disease was discovered after scans following a car accident.
- Keegan shared the news during a public event in Newcastle upon Tyne.
- He remains positive while undergoing treatment.
- Newcastle United expressed support and wished him well.
The 75-year-old made the emotional revelation during a live event at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle, where he received a standing ovation from supporters in one of his first public appearances since news of his illness emerged earlier this year.
Keegan explained that doctors discovered the cancer while he was undergoing medical examinations following a car accident.
“I was in a car accident and, through that, I had to have an operation,” he told the audience. “Whilst having the scan for the operation, they found out I had cancer.”
The former football star said he was referred to a specialist for treatment and recalled a light-hearted exchange with the doctor, who happened to be a supporter of Liverpool FC.
“He said, Kevin, this new treatment, I’ve got a tremendous strike rate. I asked, what’s your strike rate? He said 33 percent.
“I thought it would be 80 or 90 percent. Thirty-three percent! But I’m still here at the moment,” Keegan said.
Keegan enjoyed an illustrious playing career with clubs including Scunthorpe United, Liverpool FC, Hamburger SV, Southampton FC and Newcastle United.
He won 63 caps for England between 1972 and 1982 and was twice named European Footballer of the Year.
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After retiring as a player, he went on to manage Newcastle United, Fulham FC, the England national football team and Manchester City.
Widely regarded as one of Newcastle’s most influential figures, Keegan was the architect of the club’s famous “Entertainers” side that challenged for the Premier League title in the mid-1990s.
He also voiced strong support for current manager Eddie Howe, praising him for ending the club’s long wait for major silverware.
Despite his legendary status on Tyneside, Keegan said he has little interest in having a statue erected in his honour outside St James’ Park.
“You will have to wait until I die, I’m afraid,” he joked. “My statue is the way you receive me.”
In a statement, Newcastle United expressed its support for the former player and manager, describing him as a cherished figure whose passion and leadership helped shape some of the club’s most memorable moments.
The club added that Keegan would always be welcome at St James’ Park and wished him strength as he continues his treatment.
