Kevin Keegan dies aged 75 after revealing stage four cancer

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75, seven weeks after revealing that he had stage four cancer.

His family said Keegan was "surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments". They described the double Ballon d'Or winner as a "much loved husband, father and grandfather" and thanked his medical team for its support.

The family added: "This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."

Stage four is the most advanced stage of cancer and means the disease has spread to other parts of the body. Keegan revealed the diagnosis in June, after his family first announced in January that he was being treated for cancer.

Keegan began his playing career at Scunthorpe United before moving to Liverpool in 1971. He went on to play for Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle United, and won the Ballon d'Or in 1978 and 1979.

His time at Liverpool included three First Division titles, the FA Cup, two UEFA Cups and the club's first European Cup in 1977. He won 63 England caps and later captained the national side.

Keegan moved into management with Newcastle, before also taking charge of Fulham, England and Manchester City. He led Newcastle to promotion to the Premier League and came close to winning the title in the 1995-96 season.

Newcastle United paid tribute to Keegan as "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.”

The club added: "Kevin's impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him."