Former England manager and Newcastle United legend Kevin Keegan has revealed that he is battling stage four cancer.
The 75-year-old shared the news during a live event in Newcastle. Supporters gave him a standing ovation after he spoke about his health.
Keegan said doctors discovered the cancer after a car accident. He needed surgery following the crash, and routine scans revealed the illness.
“I was in a car accident and had to have an operation,” Keegan told the audience.
“During the scan for the operation, doctors found cancer. They then introduced me to a specialist who deals with this type of illness.”
New Treatment Offers Hope
Keegan explained that a leading cancer specialist discussed a new treatment with him.
“He said, ‘Kevin, this new treatment has a tremendous strike rate.’ I asked him what the strike rate was. He said 33 per cent,” Keegan said.
“I thought it would be 80 or 90 per cent. But I’m still here at the moment.”
His family first revealed in January that he was receiving treatment. Doctors had carried out further tests after he experienced ongoing abdominal symptoms.
A Football Career to Remember
Keegan remains one of the most respected figures in English football.
As a player, he enjoyed successful spells with Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle United. He won several major trophies and claimed the European Footballer of the Year award twice.
He later moved into management. He took charge of Newcastle United, Fulham, Manchester City and the England national team.
Many fans remember him for leading Newcastle’s famous “Entertainers” team in the 1990s. The side became known for its attacking football and strong Premier League title challenge.
Support From Newcastle United
During the event, Keegan praised current Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. He also said he hopes to return to St James’ Park soon.
The former manager revealed that he has not attended a Newcastle match since leaving the club in 2009.
Newcastle United released a statement after Keegan’s announcement.
“Kevin holds a unique and cherished place in the history of Newcastle United and in the hearts of our supporters,” the club said.
“Everyone at the club is behind Kevin and sends strength and best wishes to him and his family for the journey ahead.”
Fans, former teammates and football figures have since sent messages of support to the former England captain as he continues his treatment.
