Former England footballer Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75. He passed away peacefully in bed, surrounded by his wife and daughters, after a battle with cancer.
In January, his family announced that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer and was about to start treatment.
In a statement released by the Keegan family, it reads, “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.”
Before retiring at the age of 33, Keegan began his football career at Scunthorpe United, making his first-team debut in 1968. He later played for Liverpool, Hamburg in Germany, Southampton, and Newcastle United.
He also played 63 matches for England and scored 21 goals for his country. During his club career, Keegan played more than 650 games and scored over 230 goals. He won many trophies, including three English league titles, one FA Cup, one European Cup and two UEFA Cups.
He was also named the best footballer in Europe and won the Ballon d’Or award in 1978 and 1979. Keegan retired from playing football in 1984 after helping Newcastle United win promotion to the top division of English football.
The England football team will pay tribute to the legend, celebrating his life before their Nations League game against Spain in September at Wembley.
