George Best's Rival Kevin Keegan Dies Aged 75 After Cancer Battle

Kevin Keegan, the former England and Newcastle manager who was twice named European Footballer of the Year, has died aged 75 after a long battle with cancer.

What happened?

Keegan's family announced in January that he had cancer, and seven weeks ago, he himself revealed that it was stage four, the most advanced form of the disease. "A double Ballon d'Or winner, Kevin was a much loved husband, father and grandfather," read a statement. "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."

Why it matters for George Best

Keegan was a key figure in Liverpool's serial domestic and European trophy-winning team in the 1970s, playing alongside George Best. As a player, Keegan illuminated countless matches and proved a stalwart member of Liverpool's team. He was a two-time European Footballer of the Year and won numerous titles with the club.

What comes next?

Newcastle released a heartfelt statement describing Keegan as "one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club's history." Prince William said he was "incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin Keegan. A truly remarkable footballer and manager who inspired generations with his talent, passion and love of the game. Above all he will be remembered as a kind and generous man."

Keegan started his career at Scunthorpe before being signed for Liverpool by Bill Shankly for £33,000 in 1971. It did not take long for the son of a South Yorkshire miner to become "King Kev," with his invariably imperious attacking performances helping Shankly's side win three First Division titles, the FA Cup, the Uefa Cup (twice) and the 1977 European Cup.

By his own admission not a natural talent, Keegan turned himself into one of the world's best players. "Mighty Mouse" was relentlessly combative, never ducked a challenge, and remained refreshingly humble even as he became a firm Kop favourite. "I learned so much from Shanks," Keegan said. "He used to say: 'If I was a road sweeper my street would be the cleanest in the borough.' I took that to heart."

Keegan left Liverpool in 1977 for Hamburg, where he became the only British player to twice win the Ballon d'Or. Upon returning from Germany in 1980 he enjoyed further playing stints with Southampton and Newcastle before retiring in 1984. By then he had also won 63 England caps, scoring 21 goals in the course of an international career that involved playing at the 1982 World Cup.

Keegan was never one to hold back. He was memorably sent off for scrapping with Leeds' Billy Bremner in the 1974 Charity Shield and harboured a reputation for being fiercely competitive on the pitch.

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