After Kevin Keegan’s family revealed the former Newcastle United player had cancer earlier this year, he spoke to fans in Newcastle, the city he loves and whose Toon Army idolizes him.
Kevin Keegan diagnosed with cancer (Image: South China Morning Post via Getty Images)
Kevin Keegan is set to return to bid farewell to his beloved Newcastle United after being diagnosed with stage four cancer. The England legend, known as King Kev, was given a standing ovation after telling the audience on Tyneside: “We were told we had top doctors with this new way of fighting the disease we had, which was stage four cancer. He was a Liverpool supporter so we knew he wouldn’t be walking alone.”
Keegan’s family revealed earlier this year that he had been diagnosed with cancer. After a “really tough period”, the former England manager has regained enough energy to feature in Newcastle, the city he loves and whose legions of fans adore him.
He spoke Sunday about his stage 4 diagnosis, the most advanced stage of the cancer. This means that the disease has spread to other parts of the body.
Keegan made over 70 appearances for Newcastle United.
“I was in a car accident and had to have surgery as a result of it,” he said on stage at the Tyne Theater and Opera House.
“The doctor said, ‘Kevin, with this new treatment, I have an incredible strike rate.’ I said, ‘What’s your strike rate?’
He said, “33%.” I thought it was 80%, 90%. 33%!
“I’m still here.”
Keegan played for Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle during his glittering career.
He went on to manage Newcastle, Fulham, England and Manchester City. He has not returned to Newcastle United since winning his case for constructive dismissal in 2009 and says he would like to “say goodbye”.
However, he admitted that he did not want to erect a statue in his memory in the ground just yet.
“Unfortunately, you have to wait until I die,” he added. “I’m not against statues outside.
“But it doesn’t mean that much to me. “My statue is how you accept me.”
Kevin Keegan is loved by Newcastle fans (Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)
Newcastle said in a statement that they sent their “heartfelt support” and “warm wishes” to Keegan and his family following his diagnosis. “Kevin occupies a unique and important place in Newcastle United’s history and in the hearts of our supporters.” “His passion, leadership and connection to the club and city have shaped some of our most memorable moments. Everyone at the club is rooting for Kevin and sending strength and well wishes to him and his family on the journey ahead. “Keegan will always have a warm welcome at St James’ Park and we hope to see him again soon.” Keegan is one of England’s all-time great players.
As a player he won three league titles, two UEFA Cups and the FA Cup, winning the European Cup with Liverpool in 1977 before moving to Hamburg. He went on to be named Europe’s best player twice.
