Kevin Keegan dies age 75 - Family statement as Newcastle legend passes away

Former Newcastle United player and two-time manager Kevin Keegan has died aged 75.

For Newcastle fans of a certain age, there are few people more iconic than Kevin Keegan. A popular player for the club in the 80's before returning to the club as the manager in 1992.

Between 1992 and 1997, Kevin Keegan created a new identity for Newcastle United as they assaulted the Premier League, competing with Manchester United for the title with their attacking brand of football that saw the Magpies dubbed The Entertainers.

Former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley brought Kevin Keegan back as manager in 2008, but that return didn't last long after Keegan felt like he had no control and saw through Mike Ashley's facade. Keegan vowed to stay away from St James' Park while Ashley was in charge, but then, even after the PIF-backed takeover in 2021, Keegan kept his distance as he didn't want to pull attention away from the project.

Kevin Keegan absolutely loved Newcastle United, and the statement issued by his family on Monday 20th July came as a shock to everyone, even though we knew of his health battle.

Keegan was battling cancer

Keegan had revealed back in January that he had been diagnosed with cancer, but as recently as June he was talking about a return to St James' Park next season, which gave everyone hope that his fight was going his way.

Sky Sports' Keith Downie posted the statement from Kevin Keegan's family confirming his passing on Monday afternoon.

“It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. 
“Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
“A double Ballon D’or winner, Kevin was a much loved husband, father and grandfather. 
“The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support. 
“This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”

Devastated

It's almost impossible to put into words what an icon Kevin Keegan was and how much he meant to Newcastle United.

We at NUFCBlog are absolutely devastated by this news and our hearts go out to Kevin's family and friends at this difficult time.

Rest in peace, King Kev. You will be missed. A true Geordie Hero.