​Tributes have flooded in from across the football world after former England player and manager Kevin Keegandied at the age of 75, with Newcastle United honouring a “true giant” of the club and his former signing Alan Shearer calling him “my hero”. Keegan was diagnosed with cancer in January, with his family announcing he was to receive treatment, while he revealed in June that it was stage four. A statement from his family on Monday read: “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.“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. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”Keegan enjoyed an illustrious career including four First Division titles with Liverpool, back-to-back Ballon d’Or titles in 1978 and 1979, as well as one FA Cup, one European Cup, two Uefa Cups and two Bundesliga titles. He made almost 750 club appearances before transferring into management, earning the nickname ‘King Kev’ during a reign at Newcastle in which he took the club from the second tier to the Premier League and to their best-ever finish, second.Alan Shearer talks with his former manager Kevin Keegan (PA)Alan Shearer with manager Kevin Keegan (PA)He later returned for a second spell as manager in 2008, but only stayed in post for eight months.One of Keegan’s most important acts was the signing of Alan Shearer for a then-world record fee, with the homegrown star writing: “My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss.”The Magpies released an emotional tribute, writing: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history.“Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history.Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 20, 2026“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 tha