Former England national team captain and manager, Kevin Keega, has died at age 75 following a long battle with abdominal cancer.
His family confirmed his death in a statement on Monday, stating that he was surrounded by wife and daughters during his final moments.
“It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
“Kevin, a double Ballon D’or winner, was a much loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support,” the family said.
Mr Keegan’s death came over a month after he publicly announced for the first time that he was battling stage four cancer during an interview with Sky Sports following an initial diagnosis in January this year.
He revealed at the time that the cancer was discovered through a scan conducted during surgery following a car accident.
The two-time Ballon D’or winner also added that he had been receiving treatment from a specialist in advanced-stage cancers.
During his career, Mr Keegan played for several clubs across Europe, including Liverpool, Hamburger SV, Southampton, Newcastle United, Blacktown City, Scunthorpe United as well as the England national team.
Following his retirement, he went on to coach Newcastle United, Fulham, England and Manchester City.
Meanwhile, tribute has started to pour from the football community over the death of Mr Keegan.
“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of Kevin Keegan. A giant of English football, he was a cherished figure at the very highest levels of the game. Our condolences go to Kevin’s family, loved ones and all those he inspired as a manager, player and person, on and off the pitch,” Manchester United posted.
“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,” Man City said in a statement.
The club added, “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.”
“We are incredibly saddened by the news that Kevin Keegan OBE has passed away,” England Football Association said, adding “Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin’s family, friends and former clubs.”
