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Former Liverpool and England star Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75 after battling stage four cancer, his family confirmed on Monday.

In a statement, Keegan's family said: "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."

Keegan is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished English footballers of his generation. During a distinguished playing career, he became one of only four English players to win the Ballon d'Or, claiming the award in consecutive years in 1978 and 1979.

His success began at Scunthorpe United before he established himself as a key figure at Liverpool. During six years at Anfield, Keegan helped the club win three English top-flight titles, the FA Cup in 1974 and the European Cup in 1977. He later moved to Hamburg, where he won the Bundesliga title in 1979 and helped the German side reach the European Cup final the following season.

For England, Keegan scored 21 goals in 63 appearances and served both as a player and later as national team manager.

Liverpool paid tribute to their former star, saying: "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 also expressed its sadness at the news, while Prince William, Patron of the FA, described Keegan as "a truly remarkable footballer and manager who inspired generations with his talent, passion and love of the game."

After returning to England from Germany, Keegan played for Southampton and Newcastle United before retiring in 1984 following Newcastle's promotion to the top flight.

Newcastle remembered him as one of the most influential figures in the club's history, saying: "Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters."

Keegan later enjoyed a notable managerial career. He guided Newcastle to promotion to the Premier League in 1993 and transformed the club into title contenders. His Newcastle side became known as "The Entertainers" and finished runners-up in the 1995-96 Premier League season.

He also managed Fulham, England and Manchester City, before ending his managerial career after a brief return to Newcastle in 2008.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher described Keegan as "one of the greatest players this country has ever produced" and "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 tribute by writing: "My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep, easy Boss."

Keegan's achievements as both a player and manager left a lasting impact on English football, with his contributions to Liverpool, Newcastle, England and Hamburg ensuring his place among the game's most respected figures.