Liverpool legend victim of vile death hoax amid cancer battle

Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer, has been the victim of a vile death hoax on social media, claiming he is close to dying

Kevin Keegan, pictured here back in the 1970s, is currently battling cancer(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

A vile death hoax claim made about Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan has been quashed after a post on social media claimed he had only days to live.

Earlier this year, it was announced by Newcastle United, another one of Keegan's former clubs, that the 75-year-old had been hospitalised and would soon undergo treatment for cancer. The statement from the Magpies on social media read, "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."

Liverpool also released a statement of its own for Keegan, who shone for the Reds during the 1970s. While he helped Liverpool to honors galore during his time on Merseyside, the highlight of Keegan's time with the Reds was undoubtedly the 1977 European Cup win over Borussia Monchengladbach.

"The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC and Forever Reds are with Kevin Keegan after he was diagnosed with cancer," read Liverpool's statement.

Newcastle United paid tribute to Keegan at the beginning of the year prior to their game against Leeds United at St James' Park(Image: Getty Images)

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

While there has been little in the way of information about Keegan's treatment, a hoax post on social media recently claimed he was close to dying. The sickening statement even attributed quotes to Keegan, suggesting he had just days to live.

The hoax statement about Keegan read, "Sad news from Kevin Keegan. 'I don't have much time left... I just want to be at peace with my loved ones in these final days.'

Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year(Image: Getty Images)

"Sad news from football legend Kevin Keegan, former manager of Newcastle and England, who has been diagnosed with cancer. In a heart-wrenching statement, Keegan shared his wish to spend his remaining time in peace with his family, cherishing every moment of the final chapter of his life.

"A hero in the hearts of football fans, with a legendary career and unforgettable memories, he now faces the toughest battle of all. His story is not just about football, but about resilience and the power of family love. Let's all send our prayers and support to him in this difficult time."

Thankfully, Sky Sports reporter and Newcastle fan Pete Graves has now dispelled any notion that Keegan is close to dying. Graves and Keegan are friends having hosted events together in the past. On X, Graves confirmed the statement was a hoax.

"I can confirm that this statement is fake and not true. Kevin's treatment is underway and he is responding well," wrote Graves.

Kevin Keegan of Liverpool poses for a photograph with the European Cup(Image: Getty Images)

"I'd like to remind everyone the family have requested privacy at this time. Kevin has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of well wishes and kindness from fans around the world."

During his time on Merseyside, Keegan scored 68 goals in 230 appearances, helping the Reds to three First Division titles, two UEFA Cups, an FA Cup, and a European Cup. Following the end of his playing days, he went into coaching, managing England, Fulham, Manchester City, and Newcastle on two separate occasions.