Legendary former England and Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan has confirmed he is battling stage four cancer and intends to make a final return to St. James’ Park to bid a proper farewell to Newcastle United supporters.
The 75-year-old, who first disclosed his cancer diagnosis in January, made the latest update during his first public appearance over the weekend at the Tyne Theatre. Keegan’s health has reportedly progressed to stage four since his initial revelation earlier this year.
Speaking about his diagnosis, Keegan shared a poignant anecdote, as reported 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’s storied connection with Newcastle United runs deep. He first stepped into management with the club in 1992, famously guiding them into the Premier League and orchestrating the thrilling 1995/96 title challenge that captivated English football. He departed St. James’ Park in January 1997, and later made an emotional, but short-lived, return in 2008, lasting just eight months amidst tensions with the board and then-owner Mike Ashley.
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It is this history that fuels his desire for a final goodbye. “I want to say goodbye,” Keegan told the audience at the Tyne Theatre. “I didn’t get the chance when I left the club last time…”
A career of iconic moments
Beyond his impactful spells at Newcastle, Keegan’s managerial career included stints at Fulham before he took the reins of the England national team in 1999. He later managed Manchester City, leading them back to the Premier League and securing qualification for the UEFA Cup. His tenure with City concluded in 2005 when he informed the club of his intention to retire from management.
The news of Keegan’s battle has prompted an outpouring of support from the football community. Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe paid tribute to the icon following his team’s 4-3 comeback victory over Leeds United. “Kevin, with what he did here as a player and as a manager, is a truly iconic person,” Howe stated. “I want to pay tribute to him, really, and just hope he’s okay and send him all our love.”
As Keegan prepares for what he hopes will be a final, proper farewell, the football world watches on, wishing strength to one of the game’s most beloved figures, as Chronicle Live reports.
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Sources: www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk, www.chroniclelive.co.uk
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