Kevin Keegan, the twice European Footballer of the Year who illuminated English football as a player and manager, has died at the age of 75 surrounded by his wife and daughters, his family confirmed on Monday.
The former England captain and manager had been battling stage four cancer, the most advanced form of the disease, which he revealed in June after his family disclosed his diagnosis in January. In a statement, his family described him as a "much loved husband, father and grandfather" and thanked his "incredible medical team", requesting privacy at "this hugely difficult time".
“Kevin Keegan dies aged 75 from stage four cancer; tributes from clubs, players and royalty.”
By early evening, floral tributes, scarves and shirts were laid at St James' Park, where Keegan is revered for his two spells as Newcastle manager – the first coming within a whisker of winning the Premier League title in 1996 – and his earlier playing career. Newcastle United called him "one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club's history" and "the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters".
Keegan's playing career began at Scunthorpe before Bill Shankly signed him for Liverpool for £33,000. At Anfield he won three league titles and the European Cup. He then moved to Hamburg, where he was twice named European Footballer of the Year. Liverpool said his "indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history". Hamburg called him a "defining figure" of football. His former clubs Fulham, Scunthorpe, Manchester City and England all paid tribute.
Alan Shearer, who played under Keegan at Newcastle and with England, wrote on social media: "My hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss." Faustino Asprilla, the Colombian striker signed by Keegan, said: "He taught me that football is about much more than winning. It's about passion, loyalty, hope and never giving up." Prince William said he was "incredibly saddened" and remembered Keegan as "kind and generous".
Keegan also managed England and Manchester City, and his enthusiastic style left a lasting mark. The Three Lions will celebrate his life when they host Spain in a Nations League match at Wembley on 26 September.