Kevin Keegan health update after cancer diagnosis ahead of public appearance

The former Manchester City boss, 75, received an outpouring of support from across the football world, and there has since been encouraging news regarding his recovery. Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves has confirmed that Keegan is 'feeling a lot better' and will meet 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 host 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.

Keegan is fondly remembered in Manchester after helping guide the club to the First Division title in 2001-02, now the Championship. He's also an icon in the North East, having both represented and managed Newcastle. The ex-forward also featured for the likes of Liverpool, Hamburg and Southampton, claiming the Ballon d'Or on two occasions.

With 63 England caps to his name, including featuring at the 1982 World Cup, he subsequently managed his nation. Keegan departed the position 18 months later after a 1-0 defeat to Germany, the concluding match at the old Wembley.

Confirmation of his cancer diagnosis came 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."

There have been calls to erect a statue of Keegan at St James' Park, supported by fellow Newcastle legend Alan Shearer. "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."