Tributes have been paid to the former Newcastle United footballer and manager, Kevin Keegan, who has died at the age of 75.
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.
Keegan, who also played for and managed the England national team, had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
The family statement continued: "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."
The Newcastle United legend revealed he had cancer in January 2026, which later spread to stage four.
 |
| Kevin Keegan played for and managed Newcastle United. Credit: PA |
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.
A statement from Newcastle United called Keegan "the beating heart of the club for generations of supporters".
It said: "As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United 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.
"Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.
"Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him.
"At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
"Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy.
"Rest in peace, King Kev."
Alan Shearer paid tribute to his hero and friend Kevin Keegan following the death of his former Newcastle manager at the age of 75.
Keegan was in charge at St James’ Park when the club paid a then world-record fee of £15million to sign Shearer in 1996.
“My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss,” Shearer wrote on X.
After leaving St James’ Park in January 1997, a brief stint at Fulham followed before he became England manager in 1999 following Glenn Hoddle’s departure.
After overseeing a disappointing Euro 2000 campaign, Keegan resigned on the back of defeat by Germany at Wembley, the last match at the national stadium before it was rebuilt.
A spell at Manchester City followed and then an emotional return to Newcastle in 2008, but he only lasted eight months at St James’ Park following tensions with the board and owner Mike Ashley.
On the international stage, he scored 21 goals in 63 England appearances and played at the 1982 World Cup finals.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said:
“Kevin Keegan brought joy to so many of us in the North East and across the world. It is hard to believe someone with so much energy and passion is no longer with us.
"King Kev fought such a brave battle against cancer, and while today we will all mourn his passing, we should also find room to celebrate with a smile everything he achieved.”
- itvX
