LONDON : Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75, his former club Newcastle United announced on Monday.

Keegan had been undergoing cancer treatment after his family and Newcastle revealed his diagnosis in January, though details were not disclosed at the time. In June, the two-time European Footballer of the Year confirmed he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer.

“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,” the Premier League club said in a statement as per Reuters.

“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, ” the statement further added.

One of English football’s most charismatic and influential figures, Kevin Keegan enjoyed a glittering playing career as a forward, winning multiple major honours with Liverpool before establishing himself as a star at Hamburg.

His outstanding achievements were recognised with back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 1978 and 1979, cementing his status among the game’s all-time greats.

He scored 21 goals in 63 appearances for England between 1972 and 1982, captaining the side 31 times. (ANI)