Former Scotland and Liverpool defender Alan Hansen is seriously ill in hospital

Former Scotland and Liverpool defender Alan Hansen is seriously ill in hospital.

The club is supporting the family of the 68-year-old, who retired in 1991 to pursue a successful career as a television pundit.

“The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC are with our legendary former captain Alan Hansen, who is currently critically ill in hospital,” Liverpool said in a statement.

“The club is currently in contact with Alan’s family to offer their support at this difficult time and our thoughts, wishes and hopes are with Alan and the entire Hansen family.

“We will provide any additional updates as we receive them in a timely manner and ask that the Hansen family’s privacy be respected at this time.”

Hansen joined Liverpool from Partick Thistle in 1977 and won three European Cups, eight league titles, two FA Cups and three League Cups in 620 appearances for the Anfield side.

Hansen’s former colleague Gary Lineker wrote on X: “Terrible news. My thoughts are with Alan, Janet and all the family.”

The BBC’s Match of the Day report said: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Match of the Day are with Alan and his family at this difficult time.”

Former teammate John Aldridge, president of the former Forever Reds players’ association, also sent a message of support.

“All our thoughts as former LFC players are with Alan (Jocky) Hansen and his family. Let’s hope he can get over his illness. ynwa,” he wrote on X.

Hansen’s longtime defensive center partner Mark Lawrenson posted on X: “Come on Big Al you can beat this… Love to Janet, Adam, Lucy and all the family…xx”