Newcastle boss Eddie Howe pays tribute to club legend Kevin Keegan, who is undergoing cancer treatment, after a thrilling 4-3 win over Leeds.
LONDON: Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe sent his best wishes to club legend Kevin Keegan after his cancer diagnosis was revealed.
The news emerged hours before Newcastle’s dramatic 4-3 home victory over Leeds United, secured by a Harvey Barnes goal in the 12th minute of stoppage time.
Howe described Keegan as a “truly iconic person” for his achievements as both a player and manager at St James’ Park.
“That team that he created was incredibly special and is still talked about – and quite rightly so – for what it achieved and how it played and the entertainment that it gave everybody,” Howe said.
“We are always trying to be that team, we want to entertain, we want the supporters here to be on the edge of their seats.”
A family statement shared by Newcastle confirmed the 74-year-old was recently hospitalised with abdominal symptoms.
“These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment,” the statement said.
Keegan’s family requested privacy and confirmed he was grateful for the medical care he was receiving.
Keegan, known as ‘King Kev’ on Tyneside, first managed Newcastle from 1992 to 1997, famously guiding them to the brink of the Premier League title.
He also enjoyed a storied playing career, winning three First Division titles and the European Cup with Liverpool.
The former England captain was twice named European Footballer of the Year during his time with German club SV Hamburg.
He later had a second stint as Newcastle manager in 2008, which lasted just eight months due to tensions with the club’s hierarchy.
