Kevin Keegan reveals he has stage-four cancer in devastating update | Football | Sport

Kevin Keegan revealed that he is battling stage four cancer during a recent public appearance in Newcastle. It emerged back in January that the former Magpies, Manchester City and England boss was undergoing treatment for cancer. The announcement prompted a wave of support from the football world, especially from Keegan’s previous clubs, with Newcastle confirming the development by releasing a statement from the 75-year-old and his family.

Keegan appeared in high spirits during a short video ahead of his first public outing over the weekend at the Tyne Theatre to reflect on his career. It was during that occasion that Keegan disclosed further information about his diagnosis, informing fans he is battling stage four cancer, the most serious stage of the illness.

Keegan is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail: “They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got. Which is stage four cancer. He was a Liverpool, supporter so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn’t be walking alone, if you know what I mean.”

Keegan, who also enjoyed a distinguished playing career which saw him turn out for his cherished Magpies and Liverpool amongst others, was on sparkling form throughout the event.

He jokingly recounted the moment that the medic who delivered his diagnosis informed him of his remarkable success rate against the condition. Keegan joked: “I said: ‘Fantastic! What is your strike rate?’ He said: ’33 per cent’. Oh. I thought he might say 80, maybe 90! Anyway, I am still here at the moment…

“They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got. Which is stage four cancer. He was a Liverpool supporter so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn’t be walking alone, if you know what I mean.”

Keegan revealed in January that he was ill and has endured a “really tough time” after being left confined to his bed at times.

Yet when reflecting on his career, he admitted that he does not want to see a statue of himself alongside Sir Bobby Robson’s and Alan Shearer’s at St James’ Park.

“You will have to wait until I die,” he added. “My statue is the way people receive me.”

But he does want to visit Newcastle on a matchday for the first time since his time in charge in 2008.

Keegan explained: “I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time…”