Tributes pour in for Kevin Keegan as Alan Shearer speaks of heartbreak | Soccer | Sports

Tributes have poured in following Kevin Keegan’s death, with stars from across the sport and beyond taking to social media to pay tribute to the former England player and manager. Keegan’s family released a statement on Monday (July 20) announcing his death at the age of 75, saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

“Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Kevin was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin’s amazing medical team for their support. These are very difficult times and they are asking for space and privacy.” It was announced in January that Keegan had been diagnosed with stomach cancer, and last month it was revealed that the cancer had progressed to stage four.

Former footballer Alan Shearer, who played under Keegan at Newcastle United and England, has written an emotional message to his ‘hero’.

He wrote, “My hero. My manager. My friend. Rest in peace, boss (crying emoji).”

Keegan started for Scunthorpe United, made nearly 750 appearances for Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle, and was regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation.

As a coach, he managed 273 games over two spells with Newcastle, almost leading them to Premier League glory in the 1990s, where they finished runners-up twice.

Newcastle United’s official account posted a tribute to X, writing: “We are shocked to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and much-loved figures in the club’s history. Kevin was more than just a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.”

“As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St James’s Park and helped change perceptions of what Newcastle United is about.

“As a manager, he set our city on fire. Kevin gave his supporters hope and pride and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was much more than just an entertainer.

“Above all, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle based on his father Joe’s roots. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with genuine and abiding passion and in return earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions of people.

“Kevin’s influence 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 very sad time, we extend our love and deepest condolences to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

He added: “Today we mourn the loss of a true giant of history and, at the appropriate time, will carefully consider how to craft a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and work. Rest in Peace, King Kev.”

Liverpool also expressed their heartfelt condolences, saying they were “deeply saddened and mourning” Keegan’s death.

A club statement said: “Keegan’s association with Liverpool began in May 1971 when he arrived from Scunthorpe aged 20.

“He was immediately liked by the Kopites and scored on his debut in the opening game of 1971-72, against Nottingham Forest at Anfield.

“A long-standing forward partnership with John Toshack blossomed and with it came the success of Bill Shankly’s great second team at Liverpool.

“Keegan scored 41 goals (22 goals, 19 assists) in his second year at Anfield, helping us win the First Division title and our first European trophy.

“In the second consecutive UEFA Cup final against Borussia Mönchengladbach, the true superstar scored two goals for his team and set up another in a 3-2 aggregate victory.

“He was outstanding again in the 1974 FA Cup Final, beating Newcastle with a double at Wembley. In the future he will be known as ‘King Kev’ for even more impressive performances.”

He added: “However, he ended his contract at Liverpool in the best possible way, hitting 20 strikes en route to his third league winners’ medal and the club’s first European Cup.”

“Our Mighty Mouse, his exploits at Liverpool will forever be etched in history.”

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher said: “Rest in peace Kevin Keegan. One of the greatest players this country has ever produced, his trophies and goals and two Ballon d’Or awards show he was an absolute giant of the English game.”

“One of the most important people who made LFC what it is today.”

Southampton paid tribute to their former player, writing: “We are shocked to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. Kevin signed for the club as a Ballon d’Or winner in 1980 and brought great joy to fans at The Dell and across the football world.”

A statement from England Football’s official account said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the news of the passing of Kevin Keegan, an Officer of the Order of the British Empire.

“Kevin won 63 caps and scored 21 goals for his country from 1972 to 1982, before taking charge of the Three Lions from 1999 to 2000. Our condolences go out to Kevin’s family, friends and former club.”

Keegan’s influence extends far beyond the pitch and is reflected in tributes from celebrities outside of football.

Channel 5 presenter Dan Walker wrote: “Incredibly saddened by the passing of Kevin Keegan. He was a great footballer and his passion for the game was second to none. I loved interviewing him every week and he was so much fun on and off the mic. Kevin was a great companion. His legacy lies not just in the trophies and accolades he won, but in the joy he brought to so many people. My deepest condolences to his family.”

Sir Alan Sugar wrote: “Very sad news to hear of the passing of Kevin Keegan. I met him a few times when he was at Spurs and may you rest in peace.”

Piers Morgan added: “Rest in peace Kevin Keegan. A legend of English football and a great man.”