Kevin Keegan, the former captain and manager of England, has disclosed that he is battling stage four cancer.
Stage four cancer is the most advanced stage, indicating that the illness has spread to other regions of the body.
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Since then, the football community has come together to support the two-time European Footballer of the Year as he undergoes treatment.
In one of his first appearances after the announcement, Keegan received a heartfelt standing ovation upon returning to Newcastle for a live event.
Recalling his experience on stage at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, the former Newcastle United player and manager stated, “I was involved in a car accident that led to surgery. During the scans for that procedure, they discovered I had cancer. They assured me that an excellent doctor specializing in stage four cancer was available.”
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“I met with him, and as a Liverpool supporter, I knew I wouldn’t be alone in this fight,” he continued. “He told me about a new treatment with a remarkable success rate. I asked what that rate was, and he said it was 33%. I had expected something closer to 80% or 90%. But here I am, still standing.”
Keegan’s playing career included stints at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle.
Later, he managed Newcastle, Fulham, England, and Manchester City.
Keegan is revered as a pivotal figure in Newcastle’s history, famously leading the team as the architect of the “Entertainers” era, competing for the Premier League title in 1996.
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His status is such that current head coach Eddie Howe sought Keegan’s advice when he took over Newcastle in 2021, aiming to gain insights into the club and the mentality required for success.
Howe faced a challenging league season as Newcastle fell to 12th place in the Premier League.
Nonetheless, Keegan supports Howe, celebrating him as “the first manager to win anything since most of us have been alive” after the team captured the League Cup last season.
Newcastle has extended an open invitation for Keegan to return to St. James’ Park, and although he is mindful of “intruding,” the club legend expressed his desire to come back and say goodbye.
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Keegan felt he never had the opportunity to do so after winning his constructive dismissal case against former owner Mike Ashley in 2009.
However, he does not seek a statue in his honor outside the ground, stating, “You’ll have to wait until I die for that,” and adding, “I’m not against the statues out there at all, but it’s not something that holds much significance for me. My true legacy is reflected in how people welcome me.”
In a statement, Newcastle expressed their “heartfelt support” and “warmest wishes” to Keegan and his family following his diagnosis. They noted, “Kevin occupies a unique and cherished place in the history of Newcastle United, and in the hearts of our supporters.
“His passion, leadership, and connection to the club and city have defined many of our unforgettable moments. Everyone at the club stands behind Kevin, sending strength and best wishes to him and his family as they navigate this challenging journey ahead. He will always have a warm welcome at St. James’ Park, and we look forward to seeing him again soon.”