Kevin Keegan: Football Legend Diagnosed with Cancer as He Turns 75
HAMBURG, 15 February 2026 — The footballing world has united in a wave of support for Kevin Keegan, the former England captain and two-time Ballon d’Or winner, following the dual news of his 75th birthday and a recent cancer diagnosis. Known affectionately as “King Kev,” the man who defined an era for Liverpool, Hamburg SV, and Newcastle United is reportedly facing his greatest challenge yet with the same tenacity that characterised his playing career.
A Birthday Marked by Sombre News
On 14 February 2026, Kevin Keegan celebrated his 75th birthday. However, the milestone was overshadowed by reports emerging last week that the legendary forward has been diagnosed with stomach cancer. Statements from the family and tributes across social media have confirmed the news, sparking emotional scenes at stadiums across the United Kingdom and Germany.
During matches this weekend, fans at St James’ Park and Anfield held minutes of applause, chanting the name of the man who remains one of the most influential figures in British sporting history. Former colleagues and pundits have spent the last 24 hours sharing “stirring support” for Keegan, describing him as a fighter who “gave so much joy” to the game.
The Career of a European Icon
Born in Armthorpe, Doncaster, in 1951, Keegan’s journey from the Fourth Division with Scunthorpe United to the pinnacle of European football is the stuff of legend. His career is defined by his relentless work rate and his status as “Britain’s best ever export.”
The Liverpool and Hamburg Years
Keegan joined Liverpool in 1971, where he became the focal point of Bill Shankly’s attack. After 323 appearances and exactly 100 goals for the Reds, he made a high-profile move to West Germany in 1977. Joining SV Hamburger for a then-record fee of £500,000, he became the highest-paid player in the country and secured back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 1978 and 1979.
The Newcastle Messiah
Keegan’s relationship with Newcastle United is perhaps the most romantic in English football. He first arrived as a player in 1982, scoring 48 goals in 78 league appearances. He later returned as manager in 1992, taking the club from the brink of relegation to the Third Division to the “Entertainers” era, where they narrowly missed out on the Premier League title in 1996.
Career Statistics and Honours
Keegan’s impact on the pitch is reflected in a career that spanned over 15 years at the highest level.
| Club/Team | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Scunthorpe United | 124 | 18 |
| Liverpool | 323 | 100 |
| SV Hamburger | 90 | 32 |
| England National Team | 63 | 21 |
| Total Career (Club) | 592 | 204 |
Major Individual Honours
- Ballon d’Or: 1978, 1979
- FWA Footballer of the Year: 1976
- English Football Hall of Fame: Inducted 2002
- 100 Players Who Shook The Kop: Ranked 8th (2006)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kevin Keegan’s current health status?
As of 15 February 2026, Kevin Keegan is battling a diagnosis of stomach cancer. His family has requested privacy but thanked the public for the overwhelming messages of support following his 75th birthday.
How many times did Kevin Keegan win the Ballon d’Or?
Keegan won the Ballon d’Or twice, in 1978 and 1979, while playing for the German side SV Hamburger. He remains the only English player to win the award twice.
When did Kevin Keegan manage Newcastle United?
Keegan had two spells as manager of Newcastle United. His first and most famous tenure lasted from 1992 to 1997. He returned for a second brief spell in 2008.
How many caps did Keegan earn for England?
Kevin Keegan earned 63 caps for the England national team between 1972 and 1982, scoring 21 goals. He captained the side on 31 occasions.