England international and ex-Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

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Football veteran and legend of the English game, Kevin Keegan OBE, has sadly died at the age of 75.

A former Liverpool and Newcastle player, not to mention England international, turned Manchester City manager and even Three Lions boss, his death was announced on Monday, 20 July.

The news comes following a battle with illness since the start of the year, after it was revealed that he was tragically diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer back in January.

The original ‘King Kev’ before the likes of De Bruyne, also affectionately known in the footballing world as ‘Mighty Mouse’, is said to have passed away with key members of his close family by his side.

Confirmed via a public statement issued to Sky Sports journalist Pete Graves, they wrote: “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.”

Put simply, he had an incredible career and leaves a lasting legacy.

It goes on to read: “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.”

Naturally, tributes are already flooding in online, with ex-pros, pundits and fans alike labelling him among England’s best-loved father figures and characters, with one user notably dubbing him as “one of football’s good guys.”

Even at his fiery and most passionate best, he was still one of the most respected figures in the history of English football and the sporting world at large.

For instance, arguably his most iconic interview as Newcastle boss ahead of his team’s clash against Manchester United back in 1995/96 only showed how mild-mannered he often came across.

Our thoughts go out to his friends, family, former teammates and all those mourning the familiar face with a famously good head of hair.

Rest in peace to an icon of the domestic game.

Thanks for all kinds of memories, Keegs.

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Featured Images — Sky Sports Retro (screenshots via YouTube)/WikiCommons/Manchester City

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