Former Liverpool and England star Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 after battling cancer, his family announced on Monday.
Keegan, regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, had been diagnosed with stage four cancer and began treatment in January.
He became one of only four Englishmen to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or during a glittering playing career, while his colourful spell as a manager included a memorable revival of Newcastle United.
"It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.
"Kevin, a double Ballon d'Or winner, was a much loved husband, father and grandfather. The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments," a statement from his family said.
Paying tribute to Keegan's trophy-laden years at Anfield, Liverpool said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Kevin Keegan and mourn his loss. His indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history and his legacy will live on. Rest in peace, Kevin."
The Football Association said on the official England account that it was "incredibly saddened" by Keegan's death.
Prince William, Patron of the FA, said: "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."
Keegan, a dynamic striker nicknamed "Mighty Mouse," won the English top-flight title three times with Liverpool after beginning his career at lowly Scunthorpe.
He also lifted the European Cup in 1977 and the FA Cup in 1974 during an iconic six-year spell on Merseyside, before joining German side Hamburg later that year.
Keegan, who scored 21 goals in 63 appearances for England, went on to win the Bundesliga title with Hamburg in 1979 and helped the club reach the European Cup final the following year.
He was named European Player of the Year in both 1978 and 1979.
"Rest in peace, 'Mighty Mouse,'" Hamburg said, describing him as an "English football icon."
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Keegan later returned to England, playing for Southampton and Newcastle before retiring in 1984 after helping the Magpies win promotion to the top flight.
"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, 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.
"Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an entertainer," Newcastle United said.
Keegan moved into management in 1992, leading Newcastle to promotion to the Premier League the following year.
He established the club as a genuine force in the top flight, earning them the nickname "The Entertainers" as they finished runners-up to Manchester United after surrendering a commanding lead in the 1995-96 title race.
His fierce rivalry with United manager Alex Ferguson, including his famous "I'd love it if we beat them" outburst, reportedly took its toll, and Keegan resigned in 1997.
He went on to manage Fulham before taking charge of the England national team in a turbulent spell between 1999 and 2000, resigning just hours after a 1-0 defeat to Germany at Wembley.
England had failed to progress beyond the group stage at Euro 2000 under his leadership.
Keegan later spent four years as Manchester City manager before ending his managerial career with a brief return to Newcastle in 2008.
"Kevin was a transformative manager who brought optimism and vibrancy to City during his four-year spell in charge," Manchester City said in a statement.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher wrote: "RIP Kevin Keegan. One of the greatest players this country has ever produced, trophies and goals galore, double Ballon d'Or winner shows he was an absolute giant of the English game. One of the most important men in making Liverpool what it is today."
Former Newcastle and England striker Alan Shearer, who played under Keegan for both club and country, paid an emotional tribute to his former mentor: "My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss."
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