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Liverpool FC legend Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75, with the former England player and coach losing his battle with cancer.
The news was announced just a day after this year's World Cup final, which saw Spain beat Argentina 1-0. It was a controversial final, with an Argentinian player accused of committing an unsportsmanlike act during Spain's medal ceremony.
Keegan, who claimed the European Cup with Liverpool, revealed his cancer diagnosis in January. His family released a statement on Monday confirming his passing, which reads: "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.
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"A double Ballon d'Or winner, Kevin was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin's incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."
Liverpool FC paid tribute to the icon with a statement reading: "Liverpool FC is deeply saddened and mourning the passing of the legendary Kevin Keegan.
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Kevin's family and friends at this hugely difficult time," the statement added. It ended by saying: "Our 'Mighty Mouse,' his legacy at Liverpool will be forever etched in history. Rest in peace, Kevin Keegan."
Keegan was born and raised in Doncaster, England, where he began laying the foundations of his professional playing career with Scunthorpe United. Recognized for his prowess as a forward, Bill Shankly brought him to Liverpool in 1971, where he would experience the most iconic chapter of his career.
During his six seasons at Anfield, Keegan captured three First Division titles, two UEFA Cups, two FA Charity Shields, one FA Cup, and one European Cup.
On a personal level, the star also claimed two Ballon d'Or titles, winning them consecutively in 1978 and 1979, cementing his position as the world's top player at the time. There were unforgettable goals during that period with Liverpool, including the brace in the 1974 FA Cup final that helped the Reds defeat Newcastle 3-0, as well as goals in both legs of the 1976 UEFA Cup final.
While dazzling with his performances on the club stage for the Reds, the forward simultaneously established himself as a consistent fixture for the England national team. Over a 10-year stint with the Three Lions, Keegan earned 63 caps and scored 21 goals, serving as captain during a period of decline following the 1966 World Cup victory.
Stints with Hamburger SV, Southampton, and Newcastle came next before his retirement from professional soccer in 1985, after which his focus shifted toward coaching. Keegan's initial stint with Newcastle from 1992 to 1997 remains unforgettable, with his players dubbed the "entertainers" for their exciting style of play.
With the Magpies, the former Liverpool star secured the Division One title (second tier) in 1993 and came heartbreakingly close to claiming the Premier League crown in 1996.
A period with Fulham followed, during which he won the Division One title (third tier), before moving into the England national team role, where he lasted just one year. He subsequently had time with Manchester City, claiming the second-tier championship, before a brief return to Newcastle in 2008 that brought his managerial journey full circle.
The influence of Keegan as a player, a manager, and as an individual will be cherished by all those he touched during his tenure at each club.
