Liverpool icon Keegan discloses cancer diagnosis

 

Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, his family confirmed in a statement released on Wednesday.

The 74-year-old, who enjoyed an illustrious playing career spanning 18 years before moving into management, was admitted to hospital recently after experiencing persistent abdominal issues. Further medical tests have since confirmed a cancer diagnosis, and Keegan is now set to begin treatment. His family expressed gratitude to the medical staff for their care and support, while asking for privacy during what they described as a challenging period. No further updates will be provided for now.

Born in Doncaster, Keegan came through the ranks at Scunthorpe United and made his professional debut in 1968. He joined Liverpool in 1971, where he became a key figure at Anfield, making 230 league appearances across five seasons and scoring 68 goals. During his time with the Reds, he lifted three First Division titles, an FA Cup, the European Cup in 1977, and two UEFA Cups.

In 1977, Keegan moved to Germany to play for Hamburg, where his career reached new heights. He was awarded the Ballon d’Or in consecutive years, 1978 and 1979. He later returned to England, playing for Southampton and Newcastle United, before a brief spell in Australia in 1985 brought his playing days to a close.

On the international stage, Keegan earned 63 caps for England and scored 21 goals. He captained the national side at Euro 1980 and the 1982 World Cup.

Keegan’s managerial career began with Newcastle United in 1992, guiding them to promotion to the Premier League the following season. He later achieved similar success with Fulham in 1999 and Manchester City in 2002. Keegan also served as England manager between 1999 and 2000, overseeing 18 matches. While he led the team to qualification for Euro 2000, England were eliminated at the group stage after surrendering leads against Portugal and Romania.