Keegan's 'overwhelmed' family issue heartfelt statement and explain funeral plans

Kevin Keegan's family say they have been "truly overwhelmed" by the volume of tributes following the death of the football legend. England great Keegan passed away aged 75 last month from cancer.

It was announced on July 20 that the former Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle striker had died following a battle with stomach cancer. The Newcastle hero left behind wife of 51 years Jean and their children Laura Jane, 47, and Sarah Marie, 43.

Tributes poured in from across the heartbroken football world for the double Ballon d'Or winner, who won 63 caps for England and managed the Three Lions, Newcastle, Fulham and Manchester City.

A private funeral has now been arranged by the Keegan family, who have also set up a fundraiser in King Kev's honour, which will raise money for charities close to his heart.

A statement from the Keegan family, issued by the League Managers Association, read: “Following the devastating news of Kevin’s passing, we would like to thank the vast number of people who have expressed condolences and shared their memories of Kevin in recent days.

“As a family we have been truly overwhelmed by the volume of tributes and are grateful for them all. We will be holding a small private funeral in the coming weeks and request ongoing privacy and respect whilst we navigate this extremely difficult period as a family.

“Details of a memorial service hosted by Newcastle United that will take place at a later date will be communicated in due course.”

The fundraiser states: "The Keegan family are deeply grateful for all the kind words and support received from far and wide. To honour Kevin’s memory, they feel there would be no more fitting gesture than to give.

"We are therefore raising money for two causes that were close to Kevin’s heart: The Christie Charity and Football Families for Justice. The Christie were an immeasurable help to Kevin and his family, as they are to many others. Football Families for Justice is a charity being set-up by John Stiles, son of the great Nobby Stiles, to support former players who are suffering from neuro degenerative diseases caused by heading the ball during their football career.

"A sporting superstar, but also a husband, father, grandfather and friend - Kevin gave so much to us all."

Keegan was most loved at Newcastle, where he enjoyed his most successful spell as a manager. "Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters," the club said in a statement.

"As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be. As a manager, he ignited our city. 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.

"Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions."