Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan diagnosed with cancer as statement released

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Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, it has been announced, with the former Liverpool star having been recently admitted to hospital due to "ongoing abdominal symptoms"

Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool icon Kevin Keegan has been diagnosed with cancer, as announced by Newcastle United. The 74-year-old, who shone for the Reds in the 1970s and for Newcastle United in 1982, released a statement today revealing his health struggle.

The former England striker and manager was recently hospitalised due to "ongoing abdominal symptoms". In a statement shared on X, Newcastle United said: "Our former player and 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."

A statement from Keegan's family said: "Kevin Keegan was recently admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms. These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment.

"Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care.

"During this difficult time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment."

A statement from Liverpool said: "The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds are with Kevin Keegan after he was diagnosed with cancer.

"All of us at LFC and official former players association Forever Reds send our best wishes to Kevin, his family and friends."

Kevin Keegan spent six years as a player at Liverpool(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Regarded as one of the greatest players of his era, Keegan, whose full name is Joseph Kevin, kicked off his playing career with Scunthorpe before being snapped up by legendary Reds manager Bill Shankly.

He had a stellar run at Anfield from 1971 to 1977, netting 68 goals in 230 appearances and clinching three first division titles, two UEFA Cups, an FA Cup and a European Cup, reports the Liverpool Echo.

His playing journey took him to Hamburg in Germany, where he was twice crowned European footballer of the year.

He also had a notable managerial career, helming Newcastle United on two occasions, Fulham, Manchester City and even the England national team for a brief period in 1999.