Kevin Keegan has tragically passed away following a battle with cancer
Tottenham Hotspur have paid tribute to Kevin Keegan who has died at the age of 75. The Liverpool legend, who went on to become much-loved at Newcastle as a player and manager, had been undergoing treatment for stage four cancer.
A statement from Keegan’s family read: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
“A double Ballon d’Or winner, Kevin was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”
In a statement published on social media, Tottenham said: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the all-time greats of our game.
"Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin's friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kevin."
Keegan made his final public appearance last month in the north east. During that public appearance, Keegan is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail : "They said we have a top doctor with this new way of 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."
During his time at Liverpool, Keegan won the First Division title three times as well as the FA Cup, the UEFA Cup twice and the 1977 European Cup. Following that success, Keegan joined West German side Hamburg and was twice named European Footballer of the Year. He is the only British player to have won the award, which is now called the Ballon d’Or, more than once.
He won 63 England caps, scoring 21 goals, playing at the 1982 World Cup and was also later captain of the national team.
In 1992, Keegan made his first step into management at Newcastle, leading them into the Premier League and to within touching distance of the 1995-96 title, but they missed out to Manchester United. The North East club paid tribute to Keegan in a statement issued on Monday afternoon, describing him as “the beating heart of Newcastle for generations of supporters”.
The club added: “As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle could be. As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an entertainer.”
Man City said in their own statement: "Everyone at Manchester City is devastated to learn our former manager Kevin Keegan has passed away, aged 75. Kevin was a transformative manager who brought optimism and vibrancy to City during his four-year spell in charge.
"The promotion campaign in 2001-02 will never be forgotten, and Kevin then established us once again as a top Premier League side in the years that followed. Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends at this very difficult time."