Kevin Keegan Reveals Stage Four Cancer Diagnosis
Kevin Keegan, former England captain and manager, has disclosed that he is battling stage four cancer.
Stage four cancer is the most advanced form of the disease, indicating that it has spread to other parts of the body.
Keegan's family initially revealed his cancer diagnosis in January, following the 75-year-old's hospital evaluation for persistent abdominal symptoms.
The football community has since shown strong support for the two-time European Footballer of the Year, who has been receiving treatment over recent months.
Public Appearance and Personal Account
In one of his first public appearances since the announcement, Keegan received an emotional standing ovation during a live event at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle.
"I was in a car accident and, through that, I had to have an operation," said the former Newcastle United forward and manager on stage. "Whilst having the scan for the operation, they found out I had cancer. They said they had an absolute top doctor for fighting what you have got, which is stage four cancer.
"So I went to meet him. He's a Liverpool supporter so I knew I wouldn't walk alone.
"He said, 'Kevin, this new treatment, I've got a tremendous strike rate'. I said, 'What's your strike rate?' He said, '33%'. I thought it would be 80%, 90%. 33%!
"I'm still here at the moment."
Career Highlights
Keegan earned 63 caps for England between 1972 and 1982. His playing career included spells at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle United.
Following his playing days, he managed Newcastle, Fulham, England, and Manchester City.
He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Newcastle United's history, credited as the architect of the "Entertainers" team that challenged for the Premier League title in 1996.
Current Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe sought Keegan's advice upon taking the managerial role in 2021 to gain insight into the club and the mindset required for success.
Despite a challenging league season that saw Newcastle finish 12th in the Premier League, Keegan supports Howe, who led the club to its first trophy in decades by winning the League Cup last season.
Relationship with Newcastle United
Keegan has been invited to return to St James' Park and expressed a desire to say goodbye, feeling he never had the opportunity following his departure in 2008.
He has not attended a game at the stadium since winning a constructive dismissal case in 2009.
"You will have to wait until I die, I'm afraid," Keegan said regarding a potential statue outside the ground. "I'm not against the statues that are outside at all, but it's not something that really means that much to me.
"My statue is the way you receive me."
Club Statement
Newcastle United issued a statement expressing their "heartfelt support" and "warmest wishes" to Keegan and his family following his diagnosis.
"Kevin holds a unique and cherished place in the history of Newcastle United, and in the hearts of our supporters," the statement read.
"His passion, leadership and connection to the club and city have shaped some of our most memorable moments.
"Everyone at the club is behind Kevin and sends strength and best wishes to him and his family for the journey ahead.
"Kevin will always be warmly welcomed at St James' Park and we hope to see him again soon."
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