Football Legend Kevin Keegan Dies Aged 75 After Cancer Battle

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer.

Keegan's family confirmed the football legend passed away surrounded by his wife and daughters after being diagnosed with stage four cancer earlier this year.

In a statement, his family said:

"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. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."

Widely regarded as one of England's greatest-ever footballers, Keegan enjoyed an outstanding playing career, making almost 750 club appearances.

He won three First Division titles, a European Cup, an FA Cup and two UEFA Cups with Liverpool before claiming back-to-back Ballon d'Or awards in 1978 and 1979 during his time with Hamburg.

For England, Keegan scored 21 goals in 63 appearances before later taking charge of the national team between 1999 and 2000.

As a manager, he revitalised Newcastle United during the 1990s, leading the club back to the Premier League and famously taking them to within touching distance of the title in the 1995/96 season.

He also enjoyed successful spells with Fulham and Manchester City.

Tributes have poured in from across the football world.

Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer wrote:

"My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss."

Newcastle United described Keegan as "one of the most iconic, influential and deeply-loved figures" in the club's history, while Liverpool, the Football Association, Manchester City, Southampton, Fulham, Manchester United and the English Football League also paid tribute to one of the game's most respected and successful figures.