Kevin Keegan cancer diagnosis shocks football world

Kevin Keegan, the former England striker and Newcastle boss, has been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 74. The news was confirmed by his family after the ex-Liverpool and Hamburg star was admitted to hospital with abdominal problems.

Keegan, known to fans as “King Kev”, enjoyed a glittering playing career before moving into management. He scored 100 goals in 323 games for Liverpool, winning three league titles, two UEFA Cups, an FA Cup and the club’s first ever European Cup in 1977. He later moved to Hamburg where he twice picked up the European Footballer of the Year award, before spells at Southampton and Newcastle.

The forward also won 63 caps for England, scoring 21 goals and captaining his country 31 times. He played at the 1982 World Cup before hanging up his boots in 1984. His managerial career was just as colourful, guiding Newcastle back into the Premier League in 1993 and almost winning the title three years later, famously declaring “I would love it if we beat them” in a rant aimed at Manchester United.

Newcastle United led the tributes on Wednesday, posting a message of support to their former boss. Eddie Howe, speaking before the Magpies’ clash with Leeds, said: “Really sad news. Kevin is an icon of this football club, not just as a player but as a manager. The whole city is behind him.” Liverpool, Manchester City, the FA and Premier League also sent messages of strength to Keegan and his family.

Keegan’s family released a statement saying he will undergo treatment and asked for privacy. “Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care,” they said.

The diagnosis has hit football hard, with fans and pundits quick to recall his impact on the English game. His attacking brand of football at Newcastle in the 90s is still remembered fondly, while his time in charge of England from 1999 to 2000 was marked by passion and controversy. He later managed Fulham and Manchester City before a brief return to St James’ Park in 2008.

For Newcastle supporters, Keegan remains the man who made them dream of glory. For Liverpool, he is a legend who helped build their European pedigree. And for England, he was a captain and manager who wore his heart on his sleeve. Now the football world is united in hoping King Kev wins his toughest battle yet.