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Kevin Keegan is expected to make his first public appearance since undergoing cancer treatment in just a few weeks. Keegan's family revealed in January that he'd been diagnosed with cancer following 'abdominal symptoms'.

The former Newcastle and Liverpool legend, 75, received messages of support from throughout the football world, and there has been encouraging news regarding his recovery. Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves has confirmed that Keegan is 'feeling a lot better' and will greet supporters at an event in Newcastle next month.

An Audience with Kevin Keegan will take place at the Tyne Theatre on Saturday, May 31. Greaves, who will host the occasion, 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.

"It is going to be an honour to host and I can't wait to welcome him out and let him hear the cheer of all the Geordies when he gets there."

Keegan is warmly remembered across the North East, having both represented and managed Newcastle. The striker also featured for the likes of Liverpool, Hamburg and Southampton, claiming the Ballon d'Or on two occasions, reports The Mirror.

With 63 England caps to his name, including featuring at the 1982 World Cup, he subsequently took charge of his country. Keegan left his position 18 months afterwards following a 1-0 defeat against Germany, the final fixture 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 appeals to build a statue of Keegan at St James' Park, supported by fellow Newcastle icon 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."