Newcastle and England legend Kevin Keegan dies aged 75

His family released a statement today (Monday, July 20) announcing the former football player and manager’s death.

It follows the announcement earlier this year that the former England star had been diagnosed with cancer.

It said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

READ MORE: Woman’s ‘tragic’ death at Oxfordshire horse riding event announced

“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.

Kevin Keegan became Newcastle manager again in 2008 (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

“This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”

During his playing career – from 1968 to 1985 – he was a forward for Liverpool, Southampton and Newcastle United, as well as German club Hamburg.

He won multiple First Division titles, an FA Cup and European Cup.

He was capped 63 times for England and would go to manage The Three Lions between 1999 and 2000, going out in the group stage of Euro 2000.

Kevin Keegan with Sir Alex Ferguson (Image: Adam Butler/PA Wire)

He also managed Manchester City and, most famously, Newcastle United across two spells: between 1992 and 1997 and in 2008.

Oxford United reportedly played a key part in Mr Keegan’s appointment when they hammered Newcastle 5-2 at the Manor Ground in Oxford in 1992.

The two clubs were fighting at the bottom of the old Division Two (the equivalent of The Championship) as English football sat on the precipice of the Premier League era.

Kevin Keegan playing for England (Image: Peter Robinson/EMPICS Sport/PA Wire)

Following the match Kevin Keegan was appointed to save Newcastle, with both teams eventually avoiding the drop.

The next season, Newcastle would win the division and promotion to the newly-established Premier League.

This would eventually lead to the infamous title race between Newcastle and Manchester United during the 1995-96 season, which would eventually be won by Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.

READ MORE: More than 100 jobs lost as Ben Stokes-backed cricket bars close

During a post-match interview that season, a visibly angry Mr Keegan would directly call out the Scot over a dispute.

His quote – “I would love it if we beat them! Love it!” – was named ‘Quote of the Decade’ in the Premier League 10 Seasons Awards.

Following his last managerial appointment, he appeared as a television pundit on ITV and ESPN.

He also appeared at Oxford United’s Kassam Stadium for a special “An Evening With Kevin Keegan” event, bringing his career story to Oxford fans.