A social media post claiming that Kevin Keegan has only days to live has been exposed as a "sick" hoax. The Liverpool legend, 75, was diagnosed with cancer after being admitted to hospital with abdominal symptoms.

When the news emerged in January this year, there was an enormous outpouring of support for the former Newcastle manager and player. The club also released a statement in which they sent their love to Keegan and his family.

A statement from Keegan's family said: "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."

• Bayern Munich chief breaks silence on Liverpool's Michael Olise interest

• MLS chief makes Mo Salah transfer statement after bombshell Liverpool exit confirmed

The club statement said: "Our former player and manager, Kevin Keegan will undergo treatment after being diagnosed with cancer having been admitted to hospital for further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms. King Kev. We're with you every step of the way. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery.", reports Chronicle Live.

A fake statement about Keegan has now surfaced on Facebook. It says: "Sad news from Kevin Keegan: 'I don't have much time left... I just want to be at peace with my loved ones in these final days.'" TV presenter Pete Graves turned to X, formerly Twitter, to verify that the statement was a hoax. He wrote: "I can confirm that this statement is fake and not true. Kevin's treatment is underway and he is responding well!

"I'd like to remind everyone the family have requested privacy at this time. Kevin has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of well wishes and kindness from fans around the world."

Supporters of King Kev have branded those behind the statement as "sick" and "vile". One individual wrote: "What kind of person puts something like that out? Sick."

Another person remarked: "There are some vile people out there that make stories up just for likes."

A third individual stated: "Why can't people just leave him to fight this? Absolutely disgusting coming out with stuff like this. I hope KK makes a full and swift recovery. A proper legend!"

Keegan delivered promotion as a Newcastle player following two magnificent seasons at the club between 1982 and 1984, retiring amid tremendous fanfare with a helicopter send-off.

He came back as the hero in 1992, rescuing the club from dropping into the third division and possible collapse with Newcastle on the brink of financial ruin.

Chronicle Live recently disclosed how Alan Shearer and Ant and Dec were supporting a statue of Keegan at St James' Park.

Earlier in his career, Keegan, from Doncaster, spent six seasons at Liverpool, winning three league titles and the European Cup.

He won 63 England caps and also managed the Three Lions at Euro 2000.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.