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Kevin Keegan, 75, dies as football world mourns England, Liverpool and Newcastle legend

England, Liverpool and Newcastle legend Kevin Keegan has died aged 75 after a battle with cancer - his family has announced in an emotional statement

[Kevin Keegan ]

Kevin Keegan has died(Image: (Liverpool FC via Getty Images))

England, Liverpool and Newcastle legend Kevin Keegan has died aged 75 after a battle with cancer.

His sad passing was confirmed in a statement from his family: "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 Dor winner, Kevin was a much loved husband, father and grandfather.

[Liverpool have released a Kevin Keegan statement]

Kevin Keegan has left the football world in mourning(Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)

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The family would like to thank Kevins incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.

A statement from Newcastle read: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our clubs history.

"Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.

"As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be.

"As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an Entertainer.

"Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.

[Photo dated 03/02/2008 of Former England and Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan, who has been diagnosed with cancer. ]

Kevin Keegan was an adopted Geordie in Newcastle(Image: PA)

"Kevins impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him."

While Jamie Carragher said: "One of the greatest players this country has ever produced, trophies & goals galore, double Balon d'Or winner shows he was an absolute giant of the English game. One of the most important men in making @LFC what it is today."

It was revealed back in January that the former Magpies, Manchester City and England boss was receiving cancer treatment.

Speaking at an event in Newcastle, Keegan opened up about his condition: "They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got.

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"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."

Having managed the club twice, Keegan confirmed he wanted to return to St James' Park for the first time since leaving his post in 2008 to wave to the crowd prior to a game.

"I want to say goodbye. I didnt get the chance when I left the club last time," he told the crowd.

[An individual dressed in a red jersey, holding a soccer ball, stands in front of a large, enthusiastic crowd, with another person dressed similarly in the background.]

He was one of the greatest footballers England had ever produced(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Keegan is an icon in the footballing world - he has 63 England caps to his name, scoring 21 goals and playing at the 1982 World Cup.

At Liverpool, he won three league titles, an FA Cup, a European Cup and two UEFA Cups. While he also claimed a Bundesliga with Hamburg, and the Ballon dOr, one of only four Englishmen to do so.

As a manager he delivered one of English football's most iconic moments as he launched into his now famous I would love it if we beat them rant aimed at Sir Alex Ferguson.

[Kevin Keegan had wanted to return to Newcastle on last time]

Kevin Keegan had wanted to return to Newcastle on last time(Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

His Newcastle side would throw away a 13-point lead and lost the Premier League title to the Red Devils in 1996. He was adopted Geordie, but after quitting the club in 2008 vowed to never return while Mike Ashley was still in charge.

He also took charge of the Three Lions, replacing Glenn Hoddle in 1999. However after a lacklustre Euro 2000 and losing his first 2002 World Cup qualifier, Keegan resigned.

Keegan was married to childhood sweetheart Jean, who he met at a Doncaster fair in 1970, and he leaves behind two daughters, Laura Jane and Sarah Marie.

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