Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Kevin Keegan says he is responding well to treatment after being diagnosed with stage four cancer.
After it was announced in January that the former England and Newcastle manager had been diagnosed with the illness, his family revealed he was about to start treatment in a statement.
The 75-year-old was admitted to hospital with “persistent abdominal symptoms”, tests revealed he had the disease.
Speaking to Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves on ‘An Audience with Kevin Keegan’ at the Tyne Theater and Opera House on Sunday night, the two-time Ballon d’Or winner spoke publicly about his condition for the first time and revealed he is responding well to his treatment.
“They said we have a top doctor with this new way to fight what you’ve got. Which is stage four cancer,” Keegan said.
“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.”
Keegan is set to return to St James’ Park next season, which the Newcastle icon says will be a chance for him to say goodbye to the club properly.
He added, “I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance last time I left the club.”
Newcastle released a message of support for Keegan following the update.
“We send our heartfelt support and best wishes to Kevin Keegan and his family following his recent diagnosis of stage four cancer.
“Kevin holds a unique and cherished place in Newcastle United’s history and in the hearts of our supporters. His passion, leadership and connection to the club and the city have shaped some of our most memorable moments.
“Everyone at the club is behind Kevin and sends him and his family strength and best wishes for the journey ahead. Kevin will always be warmly welcomed at St James’ Park and we hope to see him again soon.”
Keegan was twice voted European Footballer of the Year while at German club Hamburg and returned to England to play for Southampton and Newcastle before retiring as a player in 1984.
He played in the 1982 World Cup and won 63 England caps scoring 21 goals and later captained the national team.
In 1992, Keegan made his first move in management of his former club Newcastle, guiding them to the Premier League and within touching distance of the 1995–96 title, only to miss out on Manchester United.
After leaving St James’ Park in January 1997, he followed a brief spell at Fulham before becoming England manager in 1999, initially taking over the job following the departure of Glenn Hoddle.
Overseeing a disappointing Euro 2000 campaign, Keegan resigned following defeat to Germany at Wembley Stadium, the last match at the national stadium before it was rebuilt.
A spell at Manchester City followed, but Keegan left the club in March 2005, initially announcing his retirement from football.
Keegan made an emotional return to Newcastle in 2008, but only lasted eight months due to tensions with the board and owner Mike Ashley.
