Kevin Keegan cancer battle, family statement and Newcastle goodbye wish

Kevin Keegan revealed over the weekend that he has stage four cancer. Keegan’s family first revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer in January, but it was only over the weekend that the 75-year-old disclosed the full details.

Stage four is the most advanced stage of cancer and means the disease has spread to other parts of the body. But Keegan also revealed that he was responding well to treatment.

He was also well enough to meet supporters at two separate shows in his first public appearances since his diagnosis. The 75-year-old began his career with Scunthorpe and was signed by Liverpool in 1971, winning the First Division three times, along with two UEFA Cups, the FA Cup and the 1977 European Cup.

He won the Ballon d’Or - then called the European Footballer of the Year - twice while at Hamburg and played for Southampton and Newcastle before retiring in 1984. As a manager, Keegan took charge of Newcastle, Fulham , England and Manchester City .

But prior to the two events over the weekend, Keegan had stayed out of the public eye since his diagnosis was revealed. The football legend has had a difficult time over the past six months, including being the subject of a cruel hoax, and has received an outpouring of support as he battles cancer.

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It was back in January that Keegan’s family confirmed he had been diagnosed with cancer. In a statement, his family said the former England international had recently been admitted to hospital for “further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms”.

“These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment,” the statement continued. “Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care. During this difficult time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment.”

Affectionately known as 'King Kev', Newcastle were quick to show support for their former player and manager. In their own statement, they said, "Our former player & manager, Kevin Keegan will undergo treatment after being diagnosed with cancer having been admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms.

“King Kev. We're with you every step of the way. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery.”

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While another of Keegan’s former clubs, Liverpool, also issued a statement that read: "The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds are with Kevin Keegan after he was diagnosed with cancer.

“A legendary former Reds player, Keegan scored 100 goals in 323 appearances during a six-year spell at Anfield, with his honours at the club including three league titles, a European Cup, two UEFA Cups and an FA Cup.”

Born on Valentine’s Day 1951, just months after his family confirmed his cancer diagnosis, Keegan was the victim of a malicious hoax that circulated on social media falsely alleging he had only days remaining. The cruel rumour featured a fake quote, supposedly from the former Magpies boss, claiming he was hoping "to be at peace with my loved ones in these final days".

The rumour was shut down by Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves, who said: “Kev has been going through a really tough time. He's been very poorly but the great news is he has responded well to his treatment and he is feeling a lot better.

"He is not out of the woods yet, but he is feeling strong enough to come out and see people, see his fans and tell his stories and relive wonderful memories, which he enjoys doing so much.”

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Keegan made his first public appearance since his diagnosis on Friday night when he spoke at An Audience with Kevin Keegan at the Corn Exchange in King’s Lynn, Norfolk. He then took part in a similar event at the Tyne Theatre in Newcastle on Sunday.

And speaking on Sunday night, Keegan opened up on his diagnoses, saying via The Times : “I was in a car accident and, through that, I had to have an operation.

“While having the scan for the operation, they found out I had cancer. They said they had an absolute top doctor for fighting what you have got, which is stage four cancer.

“He was a Liverpool supporter so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn’t be walking alone, if you know what I mean.

“He said, ‘Kevin, this new treatment, I’ve got a tremendous strike rate’. I said, ‘What’s your strike rate?’ He said, ‘33 percent’. I thought it would be 80 per cent, or 90 per cent. I’m still here at the moment!”

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Keegan took charge of former club Newcastle in 1992 and led them into the Premier League , where they came close to winning the 1995-96 title but missed out to Manchester United . And during Sunday’s event he revealed a wish of his is to return to St James' Park for the first time since leaving his managerial post in 2008.

“I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time," he told the crowd.

And in a message on Monday afternoon, Newcastle said: "We send our heartfelt support and warmest wishes to Kevin Keegan and his family following his recent diagnosis of stage four cancer.

"Kevin holds 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 shaped some of our most memorable moments.

"Everyone at the club is behind Kevin and sends strength and best wishes to him and his family for the journey ahead.

"Kevin will always be warmly welcomed at St James' Park and we hope to see him again soon."

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