Kevin Keegan to make first public appearance since cancer treatment

Editorial Team
/ 2 min read

Former England manager Kevin Keegan will make his first public appearance since his cancer diagnosis at an event in Newcastle on 31 May.

The two-time Ballon d’Or winner was diagnosed with the illness in January after experiencing abdominal symptoms.

His family confirmed he was undergoing treatment, requesting privacy during a difficult period for the former Liverpool forward.

However, positive updates regarding his recovery have now emerged ahead of a scheduled theatre appearance.

Positive response to treatment

Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves confirmed the former Newcastle United boss will attend ‘An Audience with Kevin Keegan’ at the Tyne Theatre.

Graves, who will host the upcoming event, provided an encouraging update on the football icon’s condition.

“Kev has been going through a really tough time. He’s been very poorly but the great news is he has responded well to his treatment and he is feeling a lot better.”

The broadcaster added that while the ex-Southampton and Hamburg star is not completely in the clear, he feels strong enough to interact with supporters.

“It is going to be an honour to host and I can’t wait to welcome him out and let him hear the cheer of all the Geordies when he gets there.”

A towering legacy on Tyneside

The iconic forward enjoys legendary status in the North East, having both played for and managed the Magpies with profound success.

During his managerial tenure in the 1990s, he transformed the club into Premier League title contenders with a thrilling brand of attacking football.

His achievements have recently prompted calls for a permanent tribute at St James’ Park.

Fellow club legend Alan Shearer has publicly backed the idea of erecting a statue to honour his former manager’s monumental contribution.

“I think if there was ever another statue to be built at Newcastle, then it would have to be for Kevin Keegan after what he’s done for the football club,” Shearer told Chronicle Live.

Illustrious playing and managerial career

Before moving into the dugout, the dynamic attacker earned 63 caps for his country and represented the Three Lions at the 1982 World Cup.

He would later take the national team job, although his tenure ended following a defeat to Germany in 2000 during the final fixture at the old Wembley Stadium.

Despite that disappointing conclusion, his standing as one of English football’s greatest ever players remains universally unquestioned.