Sir Kenny Dalglish has shared his own message of condolence and tribute to Kevin Keegan - ‘one of the very best players of his generation’ and ‘a genuine gentleman’.
A Liverpool FC superstar as a player, Keegan has died at the age of 75 after undergoing treatment for cancer, it was announced on Monday.
Tributes immediately poured forth from around the world of football to a man loved by many.
His six years at the Reds were transformational. There were 100 goals, three league titles and an FA Cup.
Keegan was part of the side that won Liverpool’s first European trophy, the UEFA Cup in 1973.
The last of his 323 appearances for the club before departing to Hamburg - where he would twice be voted to receive the Ballon d’Or - was a magical display as the Reds beat Borussia Monchengladbach 3-1 in Rome in 1977 to lift their maiden European Cup.
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Dalglish, who was brought in to take on the baton from Keegan upon his departure, said today: “Very saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin Keegan.
“Kevin was one of the very best players of his generation and wore Liverpool’s famous number seven shirt with great distinction.
“His achievements on the pitch were exceptional, but he was also a wonderful person and a genuine gentleman.
“Kevin’s qualities didn’t stop when he finished playing. He went on to become an outstanding manager, and what he built at Newcastle United brought belief, excitement and pride back to the football club.
“He gave so many people wonderful memories and his teams played the game in a way that supporters loved to watch.
“Football has lost one of its true greats.
“My thoughts are with Jean, Laura, Sarah and all of Kevin’s family and friends at this very sad time.
“Rest in peace, Kevin.
