Keegan update as Liverpool icon to make first appearance after cancer diagnosis

The former Reds and Newcastle star, 75, received messages of support from throughout the football community, and there has been encouraging news regarding his recovery.

Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves has confirmed that Keegan is 'feeling a lot better' and will greet supporters at an event in Newcastle next month.

An Audience with Kevin Keegan will take place at the Tyne Theatre on Saturday, May 31. Graves, who will present the evening, said: "The King is back in Newcastle in May in just five weeks at the Tyne Theatre.

"Kev has been going through a really tough time. He's been very poorly but the great news is he has responded well to his treatment and he is feeling a lot better.

"He is not out of the woods yet, but he is feeling strong enough to come out and see people, see his fans and tell his stories and relive wonderful memories, which he enjoys doing so much.

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Keegan is warmly regarded across the North East, having both represented and managed Newcastle. The striker won three league titles and one European Cup with Liverpool before joining Hamburg in 1977, winning the Ballon d'Or on two occasions, reports the Mirror.

With 63 England caps to his name, including an appearance at the 1982 World Cup, he subsequently took charge of the national side. Keegan departed the role 18 months later following a 1-0 defeat to Germany, the last ever match played at the old Wembley.

News of his cancer diagnosis was confirmed on January 7. His family said in a statement: "Kevin was recently admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms.

"These investigations have revealed a diagnosis of cancer, for which Kevin will undergo treatment. Kevin is grateful to the medical team for their intervention and ongoing care. During this difficult time, the family are requesting privacy, and will be making no further comment."

Calls have been made to build a statue of Keegan at St James' Park, with fellow Newcastle icon Alan Shearer lending his support to the campaign.

"I would love it if Kevin Keegan got a statue," Shearer told Chronicle Live.

"I think if there was ever another statue to be built at Newcastle, then it would have to be for Kevin Keegan after what he's done for the football club."