KEVIN Keegan has sadly died aged 75 following a battle with stomach cancer.
The legendary England player and manager passed away surrounded by his family on July 20, 2026.
Kevin Keegan has sadly passed away at the age of 75 Credit: Reuters
The footballing great and his bride Jean Woodhouse pictured on their wedding day in September 1974 Credit: PA
In a heart-breaking tribute, close friend Peter Graves wrote: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.
“The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.
Sign up for the Football newsletter
Thank you!
“Kevin, a double Ballon D’or winner, was a much loved husband, father and grandfather.
“The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support.
read more on kevin keegan
SMILING KEV
Last pic of Kevin Keegan shows icon smiling at event ahead of World Cup opener
LEGEND LOST
Newcastle lead tributes to Kevin Keegan after former England star’s death
“This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”
The former Newcastle manager’s family revealed he was diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer in January 2026.
A statement released by his loved ones read: “Kevin Keegan was recently admitted to the hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms.
“These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment.”
The sporting community rallied around in support, with Newcastle United also releasing a statement: “Our former player & manager, Kevin Keegan will undergo treatment after being diagnosed with cancer having been admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms.
“King Kev. We’re with you every step of the way. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery.”
The club then displayed the message ‘We’re all here with you King Kev’ on the LED board ahead of their narrowly fought victory against Leeds United.
Who was Kevin Keegan?
A prominent striker for Liverpool during their dominating period under highly decorated manager Bill Shankly, he helped lead the Reds to three English league titles, the European Cup, two Uefa Cups and the FA Cup.
During his playing days, he was nicknamed “King Kev” and “Mighty Mouse”.
Keegan played a key role during Bill Shakly’s tenure Credit: Getty
After leaving Liverpool, he headed to Hamburg on a British record transfer of £500,000, where he won the Bundesliga.
He received two Balloon d’Ors while at Hamburg, in 1978 and 1979 respectively.
Keegan returned to England in 1980, first joining Southampton before heading to Newcastle.
After retiring, he transitioned into management for spells in charge of Newcastle, Fulham and Manchester City.
He also took charge at international level, spending over a year as England boss between 1999 and 2000.
Keegan pictured with his wife Jean Woodhouse Credit: Thompson of Doncaster – The Jattvibe
Kevin Keegan with his family Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Who is Kevin Keegan’s wife, Jean?
Keegan met his bride-to-be Jean Woodhouse on the waltzers at Doncaster fair in September 1970.
Just a teen at the time, he approached her, but said she had a crush on Manchester United superstar George Best.
Keegan chose to lie about his job, revealing: “I said that I worked at the steelworks.
“Telling them I was a footballer would have sounded too flash, even though I was an unknown playing for a small club.”
Keegan managed to win Jean over, and the couple moved to Liverpool after his £35,000 switch to Anfield under Bill Shankly.
They became engaged and later married in September 1974.
The couple share two daughters, Sarah and Laura Keegan.
